How Many Cigarettes Did You Smoke This Week?

Before you think this information is not for you, let’s set the record straight that inhaling polluted air everyday is equally toxic as smoking a cigarette. Hence, none of us are spared. Upon thorough research, several? institutes and professionals have come to a conclusion that the amount of toxic air we breathe every day could perhaps be as dangerous as smoking cigarettes. We can measure the magnitude of the amount of risk we are put up against.

Correlation between Air Pollution and Cigarette Smoking:?

Upon extensive research, scientists from Berkeley Earth concluded that health impacts of a day’s exposure to 22 parts per million (ppm) of PM2.5 are equivalent to that from smoking one cigarette. PM2.5 refers to tiny particles suspended in the air that are less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter.?

Exposure to particulate matter is the leading cause of most respiratory disorders.? Five of the most common sources of PM 2.5 in India are vehicular emissions, industrial emissions, combustion, agricultural activities and other mixed emissions. 39 out of 50 most polluted cities globally, belong to India.?

What the Research Says:

1. The University of Washington and University of California, Berkeley conducted a study on air pollution's health risks. Long-term exposure to polluted air is as harmful as smoking a pack of cigarettes per day. A 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 concentration corresponds to a 13% higher risk of death.?
2. A study by the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago reveals that air pollution in Indian cities is equivalent to smoking 5-10 cigarettes daily. Bringing pollution within WHO limits could increase average life expectancy by 4.3 years.?
3. Indian cities face a severe air pollution crisis, with the Central Pollution Control Board reporting hazardous levels of pollution exceeding 1,000 AQI. The toxic air has led to respiratory illnesses, school closures, and health complications. Vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and agricultural waste burning contribute to the problem.?

What does particle pollution do to our bodies?

Particle pollution can have several adverse effects on human health. The following are some of the health risks associated with exposure to particulate pollution:

• Respiratory problems: Particle pollution can cause respiratory problems, such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.
• Cardiovascular problems : Exposure to particle pollution can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems.
• Reproductive and developmental problems: Exposure to particle pollution can cause reproductive and developmental problems, such as low birth weight and premature birth.
• Cancer: Long-term exposure to fine particle pollution in people with certain preconditions can even lead to lung cancer.

How to limit exposure to PM Particles:

• Individuals can also take steps to limit their exposure to particulate pollution. These include:
• Using public transportation or carpooling instead of driving alone.
• Using energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs to reduce energy consumption.
• Avoiding burning wood or trash.
• Using air purifiers in homes and offices.

Conclusion:

The evidence is undeniable – air pollution poses a significant threat to our health and well-being. It is imperative that we acknowledge the parallels between breathing polluted air and smoking cigarettes, prompting us to take swift and collective action. Impacts of daily exposure to toxic air pollutants are sweeping into every aspect of our lives. From the fetus to people in old age, no one is spared of the consequences. It is time we take action, waiting for mass movements and large scale plans would only delay action towards our deteriorating health. Clean air is a basic human right! Let’s take responsibility for our own lives.??

References:

https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/08/exposure-to-air-pollution-like-smoking

https://weather.com/en-IN/india/pollution/news/2020-01-29-how-breathing-indian-cities-equivalent-smoking-packs-cigarettes-day

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-01-03/delhi-toxic-air-pollution-india-smog/100728508