Impact of air pollution on human health

Air pollution has become an issue of huge concern worldwide with the increasing rate of urbanization and other industrial activities. Fumes from vehicles and industrial smoke make the air pollutant with their harmful particles constantly entering the breathable air. These invisible dangers affect not only the environment but also the health of mankind. The impact of air pollution is not limited to environmental degradation but also causes severe health problems to individuals from all age groups. It is therefore important to understand these health effects to take preventive measures and ensure general well-being.

Impact of Air Pollution on Human Health

• Lung Cancer

The most alarming effect of air pollution on human health is the increased risk of lung cancer. The toxins, including PM2.5 and PM10, as well as nitrogen dioxide, cause tissue damage in the lungs and therefore are held to be partly responsible for the development of cancerous cell formation. These pollutants, which originate from vehicle exhausts and industrial means, penetrate very deep into the lungs, causing inflammation and oxidative stress. Over the years, it significantly increases one’s chance of developing lung cancer, primarily for those living in urban areas with highly polluted regions.

• Learning and Memory Issues

Air pollution is not limited to physical health but has effects on the cognitive nature of the body. Overexposure to high levels of pollutants may impede the ability of children and adults to learn and especially retain memory. It is believed that exposure to fine particulate matter causes brain inflammation, which affects the cognitive capabilities of children and increases forgetfulness for older adults. Extended exposure may impair concentration and problem-solving capabilities. An individual’s sharp mind might fizzle out.

• Heart Diseases

Another serious impact of air pollution is its contribution to heart disease. The particulate matter penetrates the blood vessels through the lungs, thus causing inflammation and increasing the risks of heart attacks and strokes. For people with existing heart conditions, the effects of air pollution on the cardiovascular system are particularly alarming. While raising blood pressure, pollutants tend to worsen the existing condition of the cardiovascular system, hence leading to severe complications that might be fatal.

• Neurological and Mental Health Effects

Beyond physical illnesses, air pollution has been greatly associated with neurological and mental health. Cumulative exposure to pollutants has been connected to a chance of developing neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. A collaborative study from the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) states that people exposed to air pollution for more than five years are at a 30 percent risk of falling prey to mental health issues.

Moreover, toxic air has been connected to a greater tendency of the development of anxiety and depression. Accumulated effects of air pollution on mental health tend to lead to mood disorders and decreased overall quality of life. 

• Skin Damage

The adverse effect of air pollution on human health is known, however, the effect of air pollution on skin health is somewhat neglected. A study discovered that free radicals from pollutants increase the cases of acne and other skin-related conditions. Pollution in the air causes premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and loss of elasticity in the skin. It dries out the skin, making it lose all the essential moisture, and promotes the formation of free radicals, which destroy skin cells and accelerate ageing. People exposed to high levels of pollution have an increased incidence of acne, rashes, and other dermatological disorders.

Conclusion

The impact of air pollution is both far-reaching and wide-ranging and covers aspects from the physical to mental realms. Therefore, efforts should come in to eradicate the vice. Some measures taken in this respect are mask usage and the application of air purifiers. People must be given awareness by the government to follow necessary precautionary measures to safeguard themselves from this kind of pollution.

Albia Biocare is one of the best PCD Pharma companies in India, which focuses on enhancing health outcomes through quality products. As a medicine franchise company leader, we strive to help communities overcome health issues, such as those caused by air pollution. To learn more about our offerings, visit our official website.

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