The impact of air pollution on health is a subject of capital importance, the scope of which remains underestimated. As we immerse ourselves in the reality of our cities, inhaling air every day that is sometimes polluted by various harmful substances, it is essential to become aware of the health risks incurred. The poetic illusion of the purity of the air we breathe every day quickly dissipates when we look more closely at the harmful consequences of this invisible pollution.
Asthma, a debilitating respiratory condition, is one of the first victims of this polluted air. Fine particles, pollen, vehicle smoke and chemical fumes can trigger asthma attacks, aggravating symptoms in people already affected and potentially causing them to appear in others. It is disturbing to note that external factors such as the quality of the air we breathe can influence our respiratory health to this extent.
The spectre of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) also looms over those unfortunate enough to be exposed to high levels of air pollution. While smoking is a major cause of this disease, the deleterious role of air pollutants should not be underestimated, as they gradually damage the lungs and contribute to the development of COPD. A persistent cough, constant shortness of breath and a feeling of chest tightness are all warning signs that indicate possible exposure to pollutants.
Lung cancer, often associated with tobacco use, is also an increased risk for individuals exposed to harmful air pollutants. Fine particles from vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions and household chemicals can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing cellular damage that can progress to cancer. Thus, it is necessary to recognise that the air we breathe can directly affect our vital organs, indiscriminately.
Unexpectedly, air pollution affects not only our lungs, but also our hearts, an alarming but proven fact. When pollutants enter our bloodstream, they trigger an inflammatory reaction that can contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases. The arteries that supply our hearts are then vulnerable, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes in individuals exposed to polluted air.
Finally, the vulnerability of our immune system to respiratory infections is exacerbated by air pollution. Viruses and bacteria find fertile ground to spread among individuals breathing air loaded with pollutants. Children and the elderly are particularly at risk, as their immune systems are often less resistant to external aggressions.
It is imperative that everyone is aware of the dangers that air pollution poses to our health. By adopting preventative behaviors such as staying indoors on days with high pollution, using air purifiers, and advocating for more environmentally friendly policies, we can help reduce the risks of contracting these potentially deadly diseases. Breathing clean air should be a fundamental right for all, and it is our duty to protect this precious resource to preserve our health and that of future generations.