Air Pollution: A Silent Health Risk

Authors: Anupama Jithesh, Dr. Sohaila Cheema, Dr. Karima Chaabna

Air pollution is a major environmental risk to health worldwide, causing 7 million deaths annually due to exposure to both outdoor and indoor air pollution. It ranks as the second highest risk factor for non-communicable diseases, resulting in the death of 13 people every minute from ailments such as lung cancer, heart disease, and strokes. Air pollution occurs when harmful gases, dust, or smoke contaminate the air. Common sources include household combustion devices (which use open fires or inefficient stoves fueled by kerosene, biomass like wood, animal dung, crop waste, and coal), motor vehicles, industrial facilities, and forest fires.

The major pollutants that pose public health risks include particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. Exposure to these pollutants, whether short- or long-term, can lead to various health issues. Vulnerable groups—such as individuals who are already ill, children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with lower socioeconomic status—are more vulnerable. The most harmful pollutants are fine PM2.5 particles, which can deeply penetrate lung passageways and are linked to premature mortality.

Health impact of air pollution

Do’s and Don’ts to minimize exposure to air pollution and safeguard your health

Minimizing exposure to air pollutants requires action from both governments and public authorities and may be beyond individual control. While we cannot completely eliminate air pollution, we can take simple steps to reduce our exposure and protect our health and wellbeing.

Do’s – How to Protect Yourself

• Stay indoors when air quality is poor, especially during sandstorms or on high pollution days.
• Wear a mask if it is necessary to step outside.
• Ensure good air ventilation by opening windows when outdoor conditions are good. However, regions with high outdoor pollution use mechanical heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (HVAC) to filter and circulate air.
• Consider using air purifiers equipped with high-efficiency particulate air filters (HEPA) to remove particles like dust and pollen from the air inside your home.
• Use exhaust fans while cooking.
• Grow indoor plants to reduce airborne volatile compounds, even if they do not completely purify the air. Support local garden initiatives and plant trees as well.
• Use sustainable, clean household energy sources for cooking, heating, and lighting, such as electricity, liquefied petroleum gas, or solar power.
• Cycle or walk wherever possible instead of driving.
• Use public transport, local buses, metro services, or share rides with colleagues or friends to reduce the number of vehicles on the road, thereby reducing emissions.

• Use products that are environmentally friendly.
• Increase awareness about common indoor pollutants, particularly those associated with incense, scented candles, and cleaning products.

Don’ts – What to Avoid

• Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke and quit smoking if you are a smoker. Ban anyone from smoking inside homes and vehicles.
• Avoid burning wood or waste products, as they release toxic pollutants into the air.
• Avoid burning candles and incense, which also release harmful chemicals.

Air pollution poses a significant threat to our health, particularly in regions with high levels of industrial activity or natural phenomena like sandstorms. While we may not have control over the air quality around us, we can take proactive steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Small actions can make a big difference! Whether you choose to carpool, use an air purifier, or avoid burning incense, your efforts add up. Let us work together to ensure clean and safe air for ourselves and future generations.

Sources:

World Health Organization | Pan American Health Organization | Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) |  Healthline | WHO-Guidance           

Editing: Julietta Mirghani