Breathing Through the Timeline: Air Pollution’s Impact from Womb to Old Age
April 28, 2023by Priya Singh, Content Writer4 Minute Read
Air Pollution, a major concern that kills around 7 million people around the world every year, can be likened to Don (Shahrukh Khan or Amitabh Bachchan, you choose). This culprit, deadlier than Don himself, has managed to evade arrest by 195 nations. Surprisingly, Don had only 11 nations after him, while this invisible threat has been harming our generations for as long as we can remember. We have unwittingly allowed this culprit to infiltrate our homes and environment, robbing us of clean air.
When does air pollution start attacking us, you might wonder!
Well, unfortunately, air pollution impacts us throughout our entire lifespan, from the very beginning to our golden years, spanning from midlife to the end of life. Here’s how it happens:
Effects on the Womb:
Research has shown that pregnant women exposed to air pollution face significant risks. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other pollutants can cross the placenta, potentially harming the developing fetus. Studies have linked maternal exposure to air pollution with preterm birth, low birth weight, and impaired infant lung development. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the importance of clean air for expectant mothers to protect the health of their unborn children.
Impact on Children:
Children are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of air pollution. Their developing bodies and organs are more susceptible to damage. Exposure to pollutants like nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and PM2.5 can lead to respiratory problems, including asthma and allergies. Long-term exposure to air pollution in childhood has also been associated with impaired lung function and cognitive development.
Effects on Adults:
Air pollution continues to affect us as we enter adulthood. Prolonged exposure to pollutants increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, respiratory conditions, and even certain cancers. Fine particles can penetrate our lungs, causing inflammation and damaging lung tissues. In addition, air pollution has been linked to an increased incidence of strokes, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular events.
Impact on the Elderly:
As we age, the effects of air pollution become even more pronounced. Older adults with pre-existing health conditions, such as heart or lung diseases, are particularly susceptible. Studies have shown that exposure to air pollution can worsen existing respiratory conditions, leading to increased hospitalizations and mortality rates among the elderly. Moreover, air pollution can contribute to cognitive decline and neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
But, What in the air that leads to such a severe impact on our health?
It is called Particulate Matter. Often mistaken for dust, particulate matter (PM), refers to tiny airborne particles of different sizes and shapes, ranging from coarse dust to fine soot, and can be found indoors and outdoors. The PM sizes like PM2.5 and PM10 are not visible to the naked eye. It is present in the ambient air and can enter the body easily and cause damage. These particles pose a grave risk to air quality and global human well-being.
What is the solution to this deadly pollutant?
Though air pollution is an ever-present threat there is hope on the horizon. As we strive for a cleaner and healthier future, it is essential to explore innovative solutions. One such groundbreaking technology is Pure Skies by Devic Earth. This promising solution has emerged as a beacon of hope in the fight against ambient air pollution. Pure Skies not only mitigates harmful particulate matter like PM10 and PM2.5 but also addresses fugitive emissions, taking a holistic approach to clean the air we breathe. With its low maintenance requirements and extensive coverage, Pure Skies has the potential for large-scale deployments too.
Curious how Pure Skies Does this.
References:
https://www.lung.org/clean-air/outdoors/who-is-at-risk/children-and-air-pollution
https://www.unep.org/interactive/air-pollution-note
https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/blogpost/young-and-old-air-pollution-affects-most-vulnerable
