New Delhi: The Air Quality Index (AQI) has become a crucial indicator of environmental health, but its impact on human health, particularly for individuals with cardiovascular diseases (CVD), is alarming. Poor air quality, characterised by high levels of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide, and other pollutants, exacerbates cardiovascular risks by increasing inflammation, oxidative stress, and blood pressure. These effects not only aggravate existing heart conditions but also elevate the likelihood of acute events such as heart attacks and strokes.
Dr. Aravind Badiger Technical Director of BDR Pharmaceuticals, said, “For individuals already managing CVD, exposure to polluted air can undermine the effectiveness of treatment regimens, demanding a multifaceted approach to healthcare. The pharmaceutical sector plays a pivotal role here, from developing medication that addresses pollution-induced health deterioration to promoting awareness of preventive measures.”
Dr VC Chauhan Interventional Cardiologist, Bhailal Amin General Hospital, Vadodara, said“Air quality is a growing concern in today’s world, with high levels of air pollution significantly impacting public health. Among the most vulnerable are individuals with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Poor air quality, as measured by a high Air Quality Index (AQI), has emerged as a major coronary risk factor, with severe consequences for heart health.”
How Poor Air Quality Affects Cardiovascular Health
Recent findings indicate that exposure to poor air quality can have health effects comparable to smoking ten cigarettes a day, especially in cities like Delhi, where AQI levels are alarmingly high. Air pollution exacerbates not only respiratory conditions but also substantially increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
The concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air plays a crucial role in determining the severity of health risks. PM2.5 particles are tiny enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, affecting the cardiovascular system. The following are the thresholds of PM2.5 concentration (24-hour average) and their health implications:
- Bad (200 µg/m³): Critical health risk
- Very Bad (300 µg/m³): Severe health risk
- Critical (400 µg/m³): Excessive health risk
Short-Term Effects of Poor AQI on Heart Health
Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions are especially susceptible to the short-term impacts of poor air quality. Symptoms commonly experienced include:
- Acute coronary syndrome
- Chest discomfort
- A sense of unease or panic
- Shortness of breath and choking
Long-Term Risks of Poor AQI on Heart Disease Patients
Repeated exposure to polluted air can lead to long-term complications in heart patients. The harmful pollutants, absorbed into the bloodstream, contribute to the following conditions:
- Damage to Blood Vessels: Arteries become narrower and harder, impeding proper blood flow.
- Increased Blood Clotting Risk: Heightened chances of clots forming in the bloodstream.
- Elevated Blood Pressure: The heart works harder to pump blood through narrowed vessels.
- Heart Tissue Stress: Greater strain on the heart muscles.
- Cardiac Dysrhythmias: Potential disruptions in the heart’s electrical circuits.
Preventive Measures for Heart Patients During High AQI Days
While moving to areas with cleaner air is an ideal solution, it is often not practical for everyone. Heart patients can adopt the following realistic precautionary measures to mitigate the effects of poor air quality:
- Advocate for Change: Support societal and governmental initiatives aimed at improving air quality.
- Seasonal Relocation: Temporarily move to areas with lower pollution levels during periods of extreme air pollution.
- Stay Indoors: Minimize outdoor activities and remain indoors during high-pollution periods.
- Use Protective Measures: Consider air purifiers and masks designed to filter fine particulate matter.
The Need for Action
The relationship between air pollution and cardiovascular diseases underscores the urgent need for individual and collective action. By prioritizing clean air and taking proactive steps, individuals, especially those with heart conditions, can better safeguard their health amidst rising pollution levels.
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