Air Pollution Increases Risk of Atherosclerosis and Arterial Damage

From schools, children are taught about the ill effects of air pollution and how it harms one’s health. As more and more research is being done about the hazardous effects of air pollutants, we are only getting more bad news.

A recent study by Meng Wang who is an assistant professor of epidemiology and environmental health in the Buffalo School of Public Health and Health Professions University at New York links air pollution to atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis is a medical condition where high amounts of fat, cholesterol and other wastes are deposited in the arteries. As the build-up of fat inside the artery rises, the space for blood to flow reduces, which in turn increases the pressure on the heart, resulting in heart attack or stroke. Initially, it was thought that cigarette smoking, high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels only led to this condition. Now, this research by Dr. Wang shows that air pollutants could be a cause.

Now, everyone in the world is exposed to air pollution. This means that it could be a potential medical hazard for everyone, irrespective of their medical history, lifestyle and food habits. Children could get more vulnerable to this disease.

Remember, the theme of the World Environmental Day 2019 was #beatairpollution? If we want to create a healthier environment for ourselves and the coming generations, the pledges that were taken for the World Environmental Day need to be followed in earnest. Are we ready to take the first step for our good health?