Air pollution and risk of asthma, bronchitis and COPD, here's how to prevent respiratory diseases

Causes of asthma: Prolonged exposure to pollutants during critical developmental years leads to stunted lung growth and increases the risk of respiratory illnesses like asthma (Image: Canva)

The past few weeks have drawn attention to  how the air you breathe could be making you sick, as air pollution silently infiltrates everyday life, leaving a trail of health problems in its wake. Cities like Delhi, Ghaziabad, and Gandhinagar, among others, frequently experience hazardous air quality levels. The result? An alarming surge in respiratory illnesses affecting millions across the country.

Symptoms of air pollution exposure include irritating cough that lingers or a sudden tightness in your chest after spending time outdoors. Some experience shortness of breath or wheezing, especially during the colder months when pollution levels tend to spike.

These symptoms often signal deeper respiratory issues triggered or worsened by polluted air, says Dr A. Jayachandra, Clinical Director and Senior Interventional Pulmonologist at CARE Hospitals Banjara Hills, Hyderabad. “The toxic mix of pollutants in the air is directly contributing to the rise in chronic respiratory diseases across all age groups. It is driving an increase in respiratory illnesses like asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD),” he explains.

Also read | Keep your lungs healthy with cardio exercises, staying hydrated, and breathing in clean air

Dr Jayachandra lists the following disease that are caused by prolong exposure to air pollution:

• Asthma: Poor air quality worsens asthma, especially in children. Research shows that prolonged exposure to polluted air in Delhi has caused children to develop weaker lungs, increasing their risk of chronic respiratory conditions later in life

• Chronic bronchitis and COPD: Long-term exposure to pollutants has also fueled a rise in chronic bronchitis and COPD cases, particularly in industrial cities like Kanpur and Raipur. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), nearly 70 percent of COPD cases in India are directly linked to air pollution.

• Post-COVID respiratory issues: Survivors of COVID-19 in cities with high pollution levels are facing persistent respiratory complications, further aggravated by toxic air.

Vulnerable populations:

Air pollution disproportionately affects certain groups:

• Children: Prolonged exposure to pollutants during critical developmental years leads to stunted lung growth and increases the risk of respiratory illnesses like asthma.

• The elderly and pregnant women: Older adults and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable due to their reduced immunity and physiological susceptibility.

• Rural households: In rural areas, indoor air pollution from burning solid fuels like wood and cow dung for cooking poses severe health risks, especially for women and children.

• Use high-quality masks during pollution peaks
• Install indoor air purifiers
• Join community efforts like carpooling and supporting clean energy projects
• Stay indoors as much  as possible