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Air pollution can affect everyone, but the most vulnerable are children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing lung ailments
PM 2.5 are tiny yet harmful particles from sources like vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and wildfires. They can penetrate deep into the lungs, raising the risk of lung cancer and other health problems
Air pollution is a quiet issue that takes millions of lives annually, making it more than simply a daily annoyance. It may not always be visible, but it can be deadly. Since the lungs are the first organs to be impacted by air pollution, they are also the first to absorb it.
People are affected by air pollution in numerous ways. The impact of pollutants on general health can vary depending on a number of factors, including age, lung capacity, lifestyle, time spent in polluted air, and pre-existing health issues. PM 2.5 are tiny yet harmful particles from sources like vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and wildfires. They can penetrate deep into the lungs, raising the risk of lung cancer and other health problems. Dr. Prabhu Prasad, N.C. Head of Interventional Pulmonology at Manipal Hospital, Goa, shares all you need to know:
Air pollution can affect everyone, but the most vulnerable are children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing lung ailments. Nasal congestion, breathlessness, persistent cough, and the aggravation of existing asthma are common issues faced by the public due to air pollution.
Tips for Healthy Lungs
- Make sure to monitor the air pollution alert for the day by checking the local air quality online or subscribing to a pollution alert service.
- During winter, it is recommended to steer clear of walking along busy streets with high levels of traffic fumes. On hot, bright days in the summer, air pollution levels are typically higher. Therefore, try to avoid strenuous outdoor activities or undertake them early in the day when pollution levels are usually lower.
- Before taking a trip in your car, give it careful thought. Consider the advantages of alternate forms of transportation, such as walking, bicycling, or public transportation. These options offer improved safety (especially for kids), less traffic, better health (ensuring you meet the WHO’s recommended 20 minutes of exercise daily), saved time (other forms of transportation can often be faster than driving), and saved money.
- Consider carpooling, turn off your engine while you’re at a stop, take good care of your vehicle, and slow down when you’re heading to school, shopping, or work.
- Purchase environmentally friendly and high-efficiency products (e.g., opt for vehicles with low fuel consumption and minimal emissions when buying your next car).
- Take steps to decrease energy usage at home or switch to clean, renewable energy sources. Avoid inhaling harmful substances and refrain from burning solid fuels, especially trash or treated wood.
