The New England Journal of Medicine Doctors have reported a spurt in cardiovascular problems related to Covid-19 and Air Pollution throughout the pandemic.
India accounts for at least one-fifth of the 17.9 million cardiovascular disease-related deaths globally, especially in the younger generation.
Unhealthy lifestyle, unbalanced diet, stress, smoking, and drinking are some of the common reasons cited as the biggest contributors to Effect of Air Pollution on Hearts in younger people.
However, one reason for increasing heart disease, often overlooked can be "Air Pollution".
Many factors contribute to heart disease, including your genes. But growing medical evidence links air pollution and heart disease. Whether you live in a city where smog forecasts are routine or in a less populated place, tiny pollution particles in the air can lead to big problems for your heart.
Short-term exposure to air pollution can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and heart failure in susceptible people, such as the elderly or those with preexisting medical conditions.
The risk of death is greater from long-term exposure. Current science suggests air pollution aids the development and progression of atherosclerosis, plaque that builds up in the artery walls and causes heart disease. Pollution also may play a role in high blood pressure and diabetes.
Causes of Pollutants affecting Heart Health Particulate Matter (PM):
Description:Â Tiny particles in the air, including dust, dirt, soot, and smoke.
Effect:Â These particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can lead to cardiovascular diseases.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2):
Description:Â A gas produced by road traffic and other fossil fuel combustion processes.
Effect:Â Prolonged exposure can lead to respiratory problems and increased risk of heart diseases by causing inflammation of the blood vessels.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2):
Description:Â A gas produced by the burning of fossil fuels (coal and oil) and industrial processes.
Effect:Â Can cause short-term and long-term heart and lung diseases by constricting blood vessels and increasing blood pressure.
Ozone (O3):
Description:Â A gas that forms when pollutants emitted by cars, power plants, industrial boilers, and other sources react chemically in the presence of sunlight.
Effect:Â Can cause chest pain, coughing, throat irritation, and can aggravate chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, reducing lung function and stressing the heart.
Carbon Monoxide (CO):
Description:Â A colorless, odorless gas produced by burning fossil fuels.
Effect:Â Binds with hemoglobin in the blood more effectively than oxygen, reducing oxygen supply to the heart and other organs, which can be particularly harmful for those with heart disease.
Following are the measures you need to take to prevent Effects of Air Pollution on Heart
Monitor Air Quality: Regularly check local air quality reports and stay indoors when pollution levels are high to minimize exposure.
Use Plant based Air Purifiers: Invest in high-quality plant based air purifiers for your home to reduce indoor air pollutants and improve the air you breathe.
Avoid High-Traffic Areas: Limit time spent in high-traffic areas, especially during peak hours when pollution levels are the highest.
Exercise Indoors on High Pollution Days: Opt for indoor exercise routines on days with poor air quality to avoid inhaling polluted air.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Follow a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking to strengthen your heart and make it more resilient to pollution.
By following the above measures and integrating uBreathe into your home, workspace, you can breathe easy knowing that you are investing in a healthier, cleaner, and more productive environment. Choose uBreathe for the ultimate in indoor air quality and experience the difference today!
uBreathe is an organization that focuses on Air wellness systems and Plant-based Air purifiers designed for your space, supported by the goodness of nature & the power of technology. Empowering businesses to be more sustainable with improved air quality that is sustained through our air-wellness systems.
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