By Admin 
Air Pollution Health Risks: Today, poor air quality in cities has become one of the biggest health problems. Whenever AQI increases, children and the elderly are advised to be careful. But many people do not know that dirty air not only harms the lungs but also increases the risk of cancer in the long run. Especially children and the elderly, whose bodies suffer the effects of pollution more quickly.
Why are children more affected?
Dr. Tajinder Kataria, Chairperson, Radiation Oncology, Medanta, said in an article written in TOI that children breathe faster than adults, hence more polluted air enters their bodies in less time. Their lungs, immune system and other body parts are still developing. In such a situation, particles like PM2.5 and PM10 can cause more harm inside them and this effect can last for many years. Toxic elements like benzene, formaldehyde, nitrogen dioxide and PAH stop the growth of cells. Continuous exposure causes damage to DNA, decline in immunity and increase in inflammation in the body. These changes later pave the way for serious diseases like cancer. Children play outside or go to school most of the time, so they come in more exposure. Their body is small, so the same amount of pollution affects them more.
Why is the effect of pollution more dangerous on the elderly?
With increasing age, lung capacity starts decreasing. In such a situation, it becomes difficult to filter pollution particles. On top of that, many elderly people already have asthma, COPD, diabetes or heart problems. These problems become more serious as AQI increases. Long-term inflammation impairs the growth of cells, which can later turn into cancer. The speed of healing of cells is also slow in the elderly, hence the damage caused to DNA is not repaired quickly. Due to this, such changes begin in the body which can cause cancer.
How does pollution trigger cancer-related changes?
When AQI is bad, very small particles enter the body through breath. Many of these are so microscopic that they enter the blood and reach the brain, liver and kidneys. After reaching inside-
- damage DNA
- increase oxidative stress
- cause persistent inflammation in the body
- disturb hormonal balance
- weaken the immune system
Due to all these changes the risk of cancer gradually increases. One day’s bad air does not cause harm, but living in it for months and years increases the risk manifold.
How can families protect themselves?
- Be sure to check AQI daily. Avoid children and elderly people from going out in bad air.
- Wear an N95 mask if necessary.
- Keep the windows of the house closed and use air purifiers.
- Increase consumption of antioxidant foods.
- Make sure to get regular health checkups done for the elderly.
Protecting children and the elderly from pollution is not an option, but the biggest need of today. Small precautions can protect their health in the long run and reduce the risk of serious diseases like cancer.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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