Between October and January, air pollution levels rise significantly in many states across the country, including the national capital, Delhi. Recently, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi-NCR deteriorated. On Friday, Delhi’s AQI hovered around 188—a level that health experts categorize as "unhealthy." Typically, Delhi’s air quality worsens around Diwali, and health experts are already urging the public to exercise caution.

Studies have identified air pollution as a contributing factor to several serious diseases. The year-on-year increase in pollution levels has heightened the risk of various illnesses globally. Air pollution takes the heaviest toll on the lungs and is considered a primary cause in many cases of lung cancer. Health experts warn that the rising levels of pollution worldwide serve as a grave sign for the future.

Health issues caused by pollution

According to experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), the presence of pollutants in the atmosphere—such as dust, smoke, and various gases—reduces the availability of clean, breathable air. Over the long term, this can be detrimental to human health. Inhaling air pollutants can trigger inflammation, oxidative stress, and immunosuppression in cells throughout the body, potentially leading to various chronic diseases.

Let us examine the health problems associated with this.

Risk of Asthma and COPD

Air pollution not only increases the risk of asthma and other respiratory conditions but has also been linked to the development of these diseases in individuals who were previously unaffected. For those already suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), exposure to air pollution can make breathing even more difficult. Severe symptoms can lead to hospitalizations and, in some cases, even death. Lung Cancer

The World Health Organization has identified air pollution as a major cause of lung cancer. Every year, millions of people worldwide—including in the U.S.—die due to this cancer. Furthermore, exposure to air pollution can slow lung development in growing children and has been shown to reduce lung function in adults.

Impact on Heart Health

Studies have found that exposure to elevated concentrations of air pollution (PM2.5)—ranging from a few hours to several weeks—increases the risk of heart disease and related complications, such as heart attacks. It also contributes to a reduction in life expectancy. For individuals already suffering from heart disease, living in polluted areas can increase the risk of health complications by up to four times.

Harm to the Brain

There is also evidence that polluted air is harmful to the brain. Over the past decade, researchers have discovered that high levels of air pollution impair the cognitive abilities of children. In adults, it is linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of depression. It may also contribute to a rise in mental health disorders.

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