In this article, we will discuss the air pollution and its health impacts. We will also address some common questions related to air pollution.
What is Air Pollution?
Air pollution is the contamination of air due to physical, chemical or biological agents in the atmosphere. Air pollution is mainly due to the combustion of fossil fuels like coal, petroleum and natural gas. These fuels are used in transportation, factories, construction works etc. Physical components like dust and smog can also lead to air pollution. Air pollution is one of the main issues that the world is facing today because it has very bad health implications.
What Are the Health Issues Related to Air Pollution?
Air pollution is a global problem due to its health impacts, Here are the diseases more prone to air pollution:
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
This is the condition in which airways and other associated parts of the lung get inflammation. This leads to difficulty in breathing and can block the airways making it difficult for air to reach. COPD causes a cough that produces a large amount of mucus. COPD can be due to air pollution or other infection and there are various types of COPD like emphysema or chronic bronchitis.
Asthma
Air pollution is one of the leading causes of worsening the conditions of asthma. Air pollution also triggers the asthma condition. There are various symptoms of asthma like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest getting tightness. Asthma can be mild or get worse depending on the air pollution and seasons. This condition can also get worse during the pollen season.
Lung Cancer
Cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the lungs or the formation of lumps, and cysts which can block the air passage. There are various reasons for lung cancer like genetics, family history, radiation, and occupational hazards. But air pollution adds to these reasons and can trigger the condition more fast. Lung cancer can also be due to smoking or taking some drugs while smoking.
Cardiovascular disease
Air pollution also increases the risk of diseases related to the heart and the blood vessels. Pollutants smaller than 2.5 particulate matter can go through the lungs and reach the bloodstream. These particles add up in the bloodstream leading to the narrowing of blood vessels and heart issues. More air pollution can have more chances of cardiovascular issues.
Stroke
This is another condition, which can be due to air pollution. Air pollutants with a particulate size of less than 2.5 are at high risk of entering in bloodstream. These particles can stuck in the vessels leading to ischemic or hemorrhagic strokes. This also impacts the blood clotting mechanism of the body.
Other diseases due to air pollution include:
- Diabetes mellitus
- Obesity
- Reproductive, neurological, and immune system disorders
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Kidney diseases
- Liver diseases
- Skin diseases
- Pneumonia
- Cataract (household air pollution only)
How to Avoid Air Pollution Conditions?
There are various ways to avoid the air pollution conditions:
- Avoid going outside during poor air quality
- Check the air quality index before going out
- Reduce fossil fuel consumption
- Use Public Transport
- Use bicycles or walk for short distances etc.
Conclusion
Air pollution is the contamination of air due to physical, chemical or biological agents in the atmosphere. Air pollution is mainly due to the combustion of fossil fuels like coal, petroleum and natural gas. These fuels are used in transportation, factories, construction works etc. Various health issues related to pollution are asthma, COPD, cardiovascular diseases, strokes etc.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Air Pollution?
Air pollution is the contamination of air due to physical, chemical or biological agents in the atmosphere. Air pollution is mainly due to the combustion of fossil fuels like coal, petroleum and natural gas.
What are the Various Health issues due to Air Pollution?
Various health issues related to pollution are asthma, COPD, cardiovascular diseases, strokes etc.
How to avoid Air Pollution?
There are various ways to avoid air pollution like reducing fossil fuel combustion, using public transport, using bicycles or walking for small distances etc.
