Delhi-NCR Air Pollution: What Happens To Your Heart And Lungs When You Breathe Toxic Polluted Air?

99% of the global health population is exposed to air pollution levels which exceed the safe WHO guideline level for fine particulate matter, i.e. PM 2.5 g/m3. Know all the risk and tips to protect yourself from air pollution.

Delhi-NCR's pollution during October and November is at its peak due to several factors, such as burning of crops from neighbouring states, constant pollution from transport, and episodic sources of firecrackers during the festival season. As we gradually inch closer to the autumn and winter season, it is crucial to take proactive action to prevent any pollution-related ailments for overall well-being.

Health Effects Of Air Pollution: Lungs To Heart

The health effects of air pollution remain a public health concern worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 99% of the global health population is exposed to air pollution levels which exceed the safe WHO guideline level for fine particulate matter, i.e. PM 2.5 g/m3. In 2008, about 1.3 million deaths were recorded, which were related to ambient air pollution worldwide, and the figure tripled to 3.7 million in 2012.

In a 2016 study, the National Institute of Health (NIH) stated that air pollution can negatively impact most of the organs and systems of the human body. "Air pollutants can induce and aggravate diseases like cardiocerebral vascular disease, ischemic heart disease. Air pollution even has adverse effects on the nervous system, digestive system, and urinary system," NIH states. "Long-term ambient air pollution exposure was reported to increase all-cause mortality. Air pollution is the cause and aggravating factor of many respiratory diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and lung cancer."

Additionally, the WHO added, "Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can penetrate through the lungs and further enter the body through the bloodstream, affecting all major organs. Exposure to PM2.5 can cause diseases both to our cardiovascular and respiratory system, provoking, for example, stroke, lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)."

Outdoor And Indoor Pollution Protection Tips

Health risks associated with air pollution are numerous, and the best way to protect yourself from the harmful chemicals, both outdoor and indoor, is as follows:

• Plan your day one day ahead by keeping track of the outdoor air quality.
• If you're stepping out of your house, do not forget to wear your N95 or N99 face mask.
• When the air quality index value is above 100, ensure to skip outdoor activities such as jogging, skipping, and cycling etc.
• To prevent carbon emissions from vehicles, opt for public transport, transports as buses, metros, and car pooling, to reduce air pollution.
• One of the best investments for when the air pollution level is high is an air purifier that has a HEPA filter. This type of equipment can trap microscopic particles in the air, eliminating allergens and other pollutants in the air.
• To prevent indoor air pollution, you can also bring certain types of plants inside your home. Snake plants, peace lilies, and spider plants are some of the trending air-purifying indoor plants that can absorb toxins and harmful pollutants.
• Refrain from keeping your windows wide open, especially in the early morning hours when smog tends to settle down.
• Ensure to keep yourself well hydrated by drinking plain water or any other organic juice to help you flush out toxins from your body.

Lastly, consume foods that are rich in antioxidant foods such as vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin E. These are some essential nutrients that can help detoxify your body while boosting your immunity.

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