List Of 15+ Common And Serious Diseases That Are Caused By Air Pollution

Diseases Caused By Air Pollution: New Delhi's air pollution issue has gotten more serious in recent weeks, as evidenced by the Air Quality Index (AQI) entering the "severe" category and frequently surpassing 300–400, which indicates dangerously high levels of fine particulates in the air. Inhaling the city's air now involves breathing in a complex mixture of industrial emissions, dust from construction, smoke from burning crops nearby, and vehicle fumes. These pollutants combine and linger near the ground due to cooler weather and still air.

Residents now face greater health risks as a result, from immediate symptoms like coughing, irritation and breathing difficulties to long-term consequences for the heart, lungs, and other organs. Polluted air can cause or exacerbate a wide range of illnesses and conditions, such as respiratory disorders, cardiovascular disorders, and even developmental problems in children, because it targets several bodily systems.

It is particularly dangerous for older people, young children and anyone whose immune system or lungs are already weakened. With the capital city’s air quality in crisis, awareness of how air pollution drives disease becomes more urgent than ever. Here are 15+ common and serious diseases that are caused by Air pollution according to the WHO (World Health Organisation).

Common Health Impact Due To Air Pollution

Diseases caused by Air Pollution (Image: Canva)

1. Skin and Eye Problems

The outer layers of skin and eyes are the most that are harmed by air pollution. Skin irritation, dryness, and premature ageing are brought on by dust, smoke and chemical particles. Constant exposure to pollutants causes the eyes to become watery, red and itchy.

2. Weakened Immune System

Long-term exposure to contaminated air weakens immunity and damages body cells. It weakens the body's defences against infections and increases susceptibility to viral illnesses, allergies and exhaustion.

3. Neurological Disorders (Stress)

The brain is also impacted by pollution. Stress hormones and inflammation in brain tissues are increased when contaminated air is inhaled. It can eventually lead to mood swings, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and even a higher chance of developing neurodegenerative diseases.

4. Reproductive Issues and Birth Defects

Both men's and women's reproductive health can be negatively impacted by air pollution. Due to toxic exposure during pregnancy, it impacts menstrual cycles, sperm quality and raises the risk of low birth weight, premature birth and birth defects.

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6. Diabetes

According to research, Insulin resistance is more common in those who are exposed to polluted air. Inflammation brought on by pollutants alters the body's ability to use insulin, raising blood sugar levels and increasing the risk of diabetes.

6. Cataract

Oxidative stress in the eyes is made worse by certain air pollutants, particularly nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide. Over time, this causes cataracts and poor vision by speeding up lens damage and clouding.

Respiratory Problems Due to Polluted Air

Diseases caused by Air Pollution (Image: Canva)

7. Breathing Difficulties

One of the main causes of breathing problems is air pollution. The lungs and airways become irritated when people breathe in air that is polluted with dust, smoke and harmful gases. Coughing, dyspnea and chest pain may result from this, particularly in young children and the elderly.

8. Asthma

Asthma attacks are brought on by and made worse by air pollution. The lungs become inflamed by pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and particulate matter, which narrow the airways and make breathing challenging. Days with poor air quality are often associated with more frequent and severe symptoms for asthma patients.

9. COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

Long-term exposure to dirty air weakens and damages lung tissues. This results in COPD, which encompasses emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It results in persistent coughing, dyspnea, and a constricted chest.

10. Bronchitis

Inflammation, known as bronchitis, can result from airborne pollutants and chemical fumes irritating the bronchial tubes. People who are exposed to poor air quality on a regular basis may experience fatigue, mucus buildup, and a persistent cough.

11. Pneumonia

The respiratory system is weakened by polluted air, which facilitates viral and bacterial lung infections. Pneumonia, a dangerous infection that causes fever, chest pain and breathing difficulties, may result from this. Older adults and children are particularly vulnerable.

12. Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is among the most dangerous consequences of air pollution. Tobacco, industrial smoke, and vehicle exhaust all contain tiny particles that combine in the air and enter the lungs deeply. These toxins harm cells over time and can result in cancerous growths.

ALSO READ: Noida Sees 15% Rise In Respiratory Illnesses Amid Pollution; Doctors Issue Health Advisory

Deadly Cardiovascular Disease Due To Air Pollution

Diseases caused by Air Pollution (Image: Canva)

13. Stroke

Air pollution exposure can thicken blood and increase blood pressure, which can result in clots that obstruct blood flow to the brain. This may lead to a stroke, which in extreme circumstances may result in death, paralysis or speech loss.

14. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

The body suffers oxidative stress due to toxins and fine dust particles in polluted air, which causes blood vessels to become hard and narrow. Over time, this causes the heart to beat more forcefully, which raises blood pressure.

15. Heart Failure and Arrhythmias

Air pollution can lower blood oxygen levels and interfere with the heart's natural rhythm. This puts additional strain on the heart, which can result in arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats and heart failure.

16. Ischemic Heart Disease (Coronary Artery Disease)

Inflammation and buildup of plaque in arteries can result from dangerous pollutants entering the bloodstream. As a result, the heart receives less blood, which raises the risk of heart attacks and causes chest pain.