Experts Warn: Air Pollution Linked to Rising Heart Attack Rates in India
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Synopsis
Public health experts reveal that air pollution significantly contributes to the increasing rate of heart attacks in India, highlighting the urgent need for solutions to combat this public health crisis and improve cardiovascular health.
Key Takeaways
- Air pollution impacts heart health significantly.
- Particulate Matter 2.5 is linked to heart attacks.
- Outdoor pollution causes 2.18 million deaths in India annually.
- Obesity is a critical risk factor for heart disease.
- Government initiatives aim to promote healthy lifestyles.
New Delhi, March 21 (NationPress) Air pollution impacts not just the lungs but is also a significant factor contributing to the rise in heart attacks across the nation, according to health experts on Friday.
The deteriorating air quality has emerged as a crucial public health issue in recent years. Research indicates its involvement in various diseases, including respiratory ailments, diabetes, heart conditions, and cancers.
“The common image of individuals coughing due to air pollution has fostered the belief that it solely leads to lung diseases. Nevertheless, it is vital to recognize that the ramifications of air pollution on cardiovascular health are exceedingly significant. Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of mortality linked to air pollution,” stated Dr. Sandeep Bansal, Medical Superintendent at VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital, during the ‘Illness to Wellness’ summit organized by ASSOCHAM.
“Particulate Matter 2.5 can penetrate the bloodstream and may convert cholesterol into oxidized cholesterol, potentially resulting in plaque ruptures that can instigate acute heart attacks,” he elaborated.
In a recent investigation, Dr. Bansal’s team discovered that an increase of 0.5 in particulate matter over the past week correlates with a surge in heart attack occurrences.
He called for actionable measures to mitigate air pollution and enhance cardiovascular health.
Additionally, a study published in the BMJ reveals that outdoor air pollution from various sources leads to 2.18 million fatalities annually in India, with approximately 30 percent attributed to heart disease.
Heart disease represents the primary cause of death and is a silent epidemic affecting many Indians. The rising rates of obesity are also a pressing concern.
Obesity is a significant risk factor for hypertension, diabetes, and cancers—all of which can exacerbate heart disease.
To combat these issues, the government has initiated several programs like Fit India, Khelo India, POSHAN Abhiyan, and Eat Right India, among others.
“The government has introduced the Fit India movement to promote physical activity and sports, encouraging the younger population to participate in outdoor activities rather than remaining attached to electronic devices. Furthermore, the Eat Right India initiative advocates for healthy eating habits and aims to reduce the intake of unhealthy foods,” remarked Dr. Manoj Kumar Jha, Additional Medical Superintendent at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Medical Sciences & Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital.
Dr. Jha recommended making minor adjustments such as consuming a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, ensuring adequate sleep, and emphasizing preventive healthcare through routine check-ups and maintaining good hygiene.
