The level of air pollution in the capital Delhi-NCR has been increasing rapidly for the last week. Even on Tuesday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) remained above 400 in most parts of the national capital. Breathing such polluted air is considered harmful to health in many ways. Exposure to polluted air can lead to respiratory problems, diabetes, and many other serious chronic health problems.
A study conducted to know about the ill effects caused by air pollution found that it can also be a factor in life-threatening conditions like heart attack and stroke. Doctors say, that in people who already have heart-related problems, this 'poisonous air' can increase the risk of heart attack. Not only this, cases of new heart disease patients have also been seen increasing due to air pollution.
Increasing problems of heart diseases
Heart disease experts say pollution can have both short-term and long-term side effects on heart health. The fine particles of PM 2.5 present in the air enter the lungs and bloodstream. This not only causes the risk of inflammation but in serious situations, it can also lead to the development of heart disease, heart attack, stroke, and lung problems. Exposure to any type of particulate matter such as nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide increases the risk of developing chronic diseases over time.
May be a victim of a heart attack
Exposure to even mild levels of air pollutants increases the risk of heart attack, Heart.org reports. Not only this but even by coming in contact with polluted air for even one hour, this risk increases significantly.
The study found that exposure to any level of air pollutants can lead to chronic coronary syndrome. This may increase health problems that impair the blood supply to the heart muscle.
What do health experts say?
Everyone should continue to take special precautions regarding the adverse cardiovascular effects of air pollution, says Haidong Kan, a professor at the School of Public Health at Fudan University in Shanghai. Exposure to any concentration of air pollutants (such as particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide) documented in the study significantly increases the risk of heart attack.
Exposure to fine particles is linked to heart disease, stroke, and other health problems, as well as 4.2 million premature deaths worldwide. Continuous efforts are necessary to protect against these.
Use a mask for protection
Health experts say whether you have a history of heart disease or not, air pollutants can still increase your risk of heart attack. Using an N95 or any type of mask can help reduce these particulate exposures. To prevent serious heart problems and other problems caused by pollution, you must wear a mask while going out. It is very important to protect against the risks of pollution.
(PC: Freepik)
