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High levels of the Air Quality Index (AQI) can have serious health consequences for people who are exposed to contaminated air. Elevated AQI readings, which are frequently associated with higher levels of pollutants such as particulate matter, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide, can cause respiratory problems such as worsened asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory illnesses.

Long-term exposure to high AQI levels has been associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular disorders such as heart attacks and strokes.

Dr. Nikhil Modi, who is the Senior Consultant, Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals in Delhi, exclusively told Jagran English about the major health impacts of this high AQI level.

Long-term exposure to high AQI levels has been associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular disorders such as heart attacks and strokes. (Image Credit: Canva)

The high levels of air pollution, as measured by the Air Quality Index (AQI), have profound and wide-ranging implications for human health. The seven major health impacts stemming from elevated AQI levels encompass a spectrum of physiological disturbances, posing significant risks to individuals and communities worldwide.

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Primarily, increased AQI levels directly correlate with aggravated respiratory conditions, exacerbating pre-existing diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchitis. Additionally, fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in polluted air penetrates deep into the lungs, potentially leading to respiratory infections and diminished lung function over time.

Moreover, heightened AQI levels have demonstrated a strong association with cardiovascular complications, including elevated blood pressure, an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases. The fine particles and pollutants present in the air can infiltrate the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation and adversely impacting the heart and blood vessels.

Furthermore, prolonged exposure to elevated AQI levels significantly impairs cognitive function and neurological health. Studies indicate a link between air pollution and an increased risk of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, along with reduced cognitive development in children exposed during crucial developmental stages.

High AQI levels also pose a considerable threat to reproductive health. They have been implicated in adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm births, low birth weights, and developmental abnormalities in newborns, due to the systemic effects of pollutants on maternal health and fetal development.

Skin health is not immune to the detrimental effects of increased air pollution. Pollutants can accelerate skin aging, trigger dermatological conditions like eczema and acne, and worsen existing skin disorders due to oxidative stress and inflammation.

High levels of the Air Quality Index (AQI) can have serious health consequences for people who are exposed to contaminated air. (Image Credit: Canva)

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Additionally, elevated AQI levels contribute significantly to overall mortality rates, leading to an increased risk of premature death, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and individuals with underlying health conditions.

At last, Dr. Nikhil said, "Hence, the multifaceted impacts of high AQI levels underscore the urgency for comprehensive measures aimed at mitigating air pollution. Protecting public health necessitates concerted efforts to reduce emissions, implement stringent air quality standards, and advocate for sustainable practices to safeguard human well-being and the environment."