Air pollution is a pressing environmental threat that endangers public health, particularly by compromising respiratory and cardiovascular functions. It contains a toxic mix of pollutants—including fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—primarily released from industries, vehicles, and biomass burning.
Respiratory diseases rank among the most severe consequences of prolonged exposure. Fine particulate matter infiltrates deep into the lungs, triggering inflammation, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and severe lung infections. Long-term exposure diminishes lung function and significantly raises the risk of lung cancer. Children and the elderly remain the most vulnerable.
Air pollution also wreaks havoc on cardiovascular health. Pollutants penetrate the bloodstream, inducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction—key drivers of hypertension, atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. Research consistently links high pollution levels to surging hospital admissions for heart-related illnesses.
Tackling air pollution demands decisive action—stricter regulations, cleaner energy adoption, and improved urban air quality. Public awareness and robust policy measures play a critical role in mitigating its devastating health effects.
In a conversation with The Interview World at the 3rd Awareness Summit on Illness to Wellness, hosted by ASSOCHAM, Dr. Sandeep Bansal, Medical Superintendent at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital (Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India), dismantles common misconceptions about air pollution’s health impact. He explains how PM2.5 fuels heart disease, underscores air pollution’s status as a leading global cause of death, outlines India’s ongoing research initiatives, and highlights actionable solutions to combat this crisis. Here are the key takeaways from his insights.
Q: What is the common perception regarding the health effects of air pollution?
A: Most people link air pollution to lung damage and respiratory diseases, largely due to awareness campaigns that depict individuals coughing. However, its impact extends far beyond the lungs. Toxic pollutants in the air enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation, narrowing blood vessels, and elevating the risk of heart disease. Prolonged exposure significantly increases the likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular complications. Air pollution is not just a respiratory threat—it’s a silent killer of heart health.
Q: How does PM2.5 contribute to heart disease?
A: PM2.5—microscopic particulate matter measuring just 2.5 microns—poses a grave threat to cardiovascular health. These pollutants bypass the body’s natural defences, infiltrate the bloodstream, and oxidize cholesterol. This oxidation weakens arterial plaques, making them unstable and prone to rupture, a critical trigger for acute heart attacks.
Our research confirms a troubling pattern. When PM2.5 levels rise, heart attack cases follow. Data from our center consistently show that increased exposure over the preceding week correlates with a higher incidence of cardiac emergencies.
Despite being a silent killer, air pollution remains an underestimated driver of heart disease. With cardiovascular disease ranking among the leading causes of death, reducing air pollution could play a crucial role in lowering global mortality rates.
Q: How significant is air pollution as a cause of death globally?
A: Air pollution has become the third leading cause of death worldwide, posing a severe threat to public health. Its toxic effects claim millions of lives annually, demanding urgent global intervention and policy action.
Q: What steps are being taken to study the impact of air pollution in India?
A: India is conducting extensive research to uncover the link between air pollution and health, particularly its impact on cardiovascular diseases. Scientists and policymakers are joining forces to analyse data, identify risks, and develop effective strategies to mitigate this growing public health crisis.
Q: Are there solutions to combat air pollution and its health effects?
A: Absolutely, viable solutions exist. The key lies in collaboration and decisive action. Governments, industries, and communities must work together to implement targeted measures that curb air pollution, protect public health, and create a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations.
