The hidden dangers of air pollution and fog on human health

Human exposure to unhealthy levels of air pollution, often exacerbated by seasonal fog, has become a significant public health issue in urban areas across both developed and developing nations. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution was responsible for nearly 4.2 million premature deaths in 2018 alone.Although the connection between air pollution and serious respiratory and cardiovascular diseases is established, research continues to reveal other adverse effects of air pollution on brain health, especially in children and the elderly.Effects on brain healthExposure to polluted air for an extended period has increasingly been associated with neurodegenerative diseases like dementia. Short-term exposure has been associated with reduced daily productivity, declining attention spans particularly in children, and headaches.Research studies involving MRI found that aging brains that had high concentrations of pollutants combined with fog show structural brain changes and atrophy. In the study of animals, such effects were detected before the condition develops to dementia. Researchers have found that air pollution also leads to neuron inflammation and oxidative stress, factors contributing to neurodegenerative disease and psychiatric illness such as anxiety and depression.Short-term exposure health effectsEven brief exposure to polluted fog can result in noticeable health impacts, including:Frequent headaches.Reduced concentration and attention span.Difficulty focusing on tasks.Steps to Mitigate Health RisksTo address the health hazards posed by air pollution and fog, both collective and individual actions are essential:Public and policy-level measuresReduce emissions by promoting eco-friendly public transportation.Limit the burning of garbage and agricultural waste.Enforce stricter regulations on vehicles and industries to curb pollution.Personal Protective MeasuresWear mask with filters for fine particulate if air quality is badOutdoor recreation may need to be limited on extremely polluted daysEnsure proper ventilation within indoor space and add HEPA cleanersFollow antioxidant and anti-inflammatory diet high in such things as leafy greens, berries and fish in support of a healthy brainCall to actionWith increased pollution by air and compounded by fog, the danger to public health has increased alarmingly. This requires a combined approach by governments, industries, and people to reduce the risks and protect vulnerable groups. It can be achieved by implementing preventive measures and enhancing cleaner environments that reduce the long-term health impact and increase overall well-being.Authored by: Dr. Ashish Gosar, Neurologist, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai