Due to cold weather and increased pollution levels, the risk of respiratory infections has increased in recent weeks. Cases of worsening of upper and lower respiratory tract infections as well as bronchial asthma and COPD have also been observed. Due to the spread of respiratory germs, more and more people are falling ill and requiring hospital care.
Air pollution damages the main organs of our respiratory system: the lungs. Air pollution can trigger asthma attacks and worsen symptoms. Especially among children. Exposure to pollutants like diesel exhaust and tobacco smoke also increases the risk of lung cancer.
When we spoke to Dr Hitesh Billa, Specialist, Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, he said that it not only affects the lungs but also our cardiovascular system. Heart diseases are very common due to air pollution. It increases blood pressure, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases such as: coronary syndrome, arrhythmia, heart failure, stroke and sudden cardiac death.
Other health effects caused by air pollution are:
Neurological problems: Air pollution can increase the risk of diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
Cognitive problems: Especially in children, exposure can affect brain development, leading to lower IQ and poor academic performance.
reproductive health: Pollution can lead to problems such as infertility, miscarriages and low birth weight.
cancer: Air pollution is linked to a higher risk of cancers such as bladder and breast cancer.
Our vulnerable populations, i.e. children and the elderly, are more likely to be exposed to diseases caused by air pollution. Children are at greater risk due to the development of their lungs and immune systems. Older people, especially those with heart or lung disease, are also more vulnerable. People with health conditions such as asthma, COPD or heart disease may experience more severe symptoms due to air pollution.
As air pollution increases, it is very important to focus on mitigation strategies. Encourage clean fuels, electric vehicles and public transport to reduce pollution
Create green spaces by planting trees to purify the air.
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Educate and encourage the population to use renewable energy sources such as solar and wind to reduce emissions
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Educate the population about the health risks linked to air pollution.
We can protect our health and create a clean and healthy environment for future generations.
Disclaimer: Some information in news stories is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, you should consult the relevant expert.
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