Long-term exposure to air pollution can not only cause coughing, but also give your skin a reason to complain.
What happens?
According to Medical Xpress, a recent study published in JAMA Network Open has revealed a disturbing link between long-term exposure to air pollution and the development of psoriasis, a chronic and often debilitating skin condition.
The study, conducted at Peking University School of Nursing in Beijing, analyzed data from 474,055 people over a period of nearly 12 years. The results showed that those who were exposed to more air pollutants also had a higher risk of psoriasis.
The air pollutants tested included fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). Worryingly, the study also found that people with a genetic predisposition to psoriasis are at even greater risk when exposed to high levels of air pollution.
Why is this important?
The link between air pollution and psoriasis is particularly worrying because it adds a new dimension to the already long list of health problems associated with poor air quality.
Air pollution can have a significant impact on human health, affecting various aspects of our well-being. For example, fine particulate matter can penetrate deep into our lungs and lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, lung cancer and even premature birth.
In Europe alone, it is estimated that over 400,000 premature deaths are caused by air pollution each year. In addition, high levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in many regions can aggravate respiratory diseases such as asthma and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections.
In addition, recent studies have revealed disturbing links between air pollution and mental health. For example, research has shown that suicide rates among older adults, particularly women, are increased in areas with high levels of air pollution.
What is being done about air pollution?
It is clear that improving air quality can have significant benefits for our physical and mental health.
“There is a need to develop and implement effective measures aimed at reducing air pollution and protecting people from the effects associated with psoriasis,” the study authors said.
Governments around the world are implementing stricter pollution regulations, promoting the use of clean energy sources and supporting the development of green infrastructure in urban areas to reduce pollution. For example, cities such as London and Paris have introduced low-emission zones to limit the presence of high-emission vehicles, which could help reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.
At an individual level, people can take steps to protect themselves and contribute to a cleaner environment. Using air purifiers at home, avoiding outdoor activities on days when air pollution is high, and supporting emissions reduction measures can help reduce personal exposure to pollutants.
In addition, you can contribute to broader air purification efforts by using electric vehicles or public transportation.
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