Beyond the Haze: Unveiling the Silent Peril of Air Pollution on Human Health
Nine out of every ten people on the planet, according to WHO estimates, breathe air that is more polluted than WHO air quality recommendations, which could be alarmingly detrimental to human health. Long-term exposure to contaminated air has been associated with a loss in cognitive abilities with the older population being the most vulnerable.
Causing everything from the most common respiratory disorders like asthma to cardiovascular and even neurodegenerative issues, air pollution has proven itself to be a silent perilous crisis, with sometimes lethal repercussions.
Exacerbation of pre-existing respiratory disorders, coughing, dyspnea, wheezing, and elicitation of asthmatic episodes are common manifestations of a low air quality index. However, long-term exposure to such an index has been associated with higher risks of lung cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, severe infections, cardiovascular diseases, and alarmingly, as new studies reveal, even neurodegenerative disorders. The revelation of a troubling link between air pollution and neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's has spurred a debate about the broader health ramifications of air pollution and the need for enforcement of stricter international policies to abate air pollution.
Some of the most vulnerable demographics to the health implications of air pollution include children, the elderly, and low-income communities.
With a still-developing respiratory system, children are prone to developing respiratory infections and asthma upon exposure to pollutants. Similarly, the elderly are particularly susceptible to developing new respiratory ailments or experiencing exacerbation of pre-existing conditions. These factors contribute to higher rates of hospitalization and mortality. Low-income communities, due to their limited access to most basic resources, pay the brunt of industrial air pollution and environmental injustice.
A reasonable approach to tackle air pollution and its follow-on health effects would be to encourage individuals to reduce their carbon footprint and work towards further community engagement for the same. As medical students, we carry the grave responsibility to educate our communities about the severity of the health risks posed by air pollution and encourage them to take action and seek medical attention now, rather than resorting to dismissal of health concerns due to their apparent mildness.
Ultimately, by combining individual efforts and community actions, we can combat and amplify awareness of the broader health implications of air pollution, extending far beyond respiratory issues.
Additionally, understanding the intricate interconnection of air pollution with other major issues such as climate change, access to healthcare as well as the influence of various racial, economic or gender biases in the downplay of medical issues is imperative. It is only through a comprehensive understanding of these factors, and adopting a holistic approach, that we can promote equity and justice in healthcare, safeguarding the future for generations to come.
Written By: Asma Akhtar Siddiqui