Air Pollution Recovery: Is It Possible?

Air pollution is the single largest environmental health risk, causing numerous diseases and contributing to one in eight of all deaths worldwide. It is therefore important to consider whether it is possible to recover from air pollution and its associated health effects. A study by NYU Langone Health / NYU School of Medicine found that international travellers to highly polluted cities experienced breathing problems that took at least a week to recover from. However, the participants gradually returned to normal health, and it is unclear whether there were any long-term effects. While some sources suggest that the risks of pollution are typically low for healthy individuals, air pollution has been linked to a range of serious health issues, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, stroke, lung cancer, and psychological distress.

Air pollution's impact on mental health

Air pollution has been linked to a range of physical health issues, but it also has a significant impact on mental health. While the specific causal relationship between air pollution and mental health is complex and not fully understood, research has revealed strong connections.

Several studies have found a link between air pollution and mental health disorders, including bipolar disorder, depression, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Visits to mental health services are higher on days with increased particulate matter (PM) pollution, and mortality associated with mental and behavioural disorders is higher on days with haze. Additionally, suicides have been correlated with higher levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), PM, and sulphur dioxide (SO2). Interquartile range increases in nitrogen oxides (NOx) and PM2.5 are associated with an 18-39% increase in common mental disorders, while an interquartile range increase in PM10 is associated with a 33% increase in psychotic experiences.

The impact of air pollution on the mental health of children and young people is particularly notable. Research has shown that young people are three to four times more likely to experience depression at age 18 if they grew up in areas with higher air pollution levels at age 12. Prenatal exposure to high levels of air pollution has also been linked to poorer mental development in children.

Indoor air quality, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2) levels, can also affect mental health. While CO2 is not considered a pollutant as it is naturally occurring and essential for life, it can have a significant impact on cognitive capabilities, productivity, comfort, and mental well-being.

Neurological research has found that exposure to PM can lead to increased brain inflammation and higher levels of cytokines, molecules that regulate the body's inflammatory response. These increased levels of inflammation and cytokines have been correlated with anxiety and depression and are also factors in central nervous system disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

While the exact mechanisms are not yet fully understood, the evidence suggests that air pollution has a detrimental impact on mental health. This impact should be considered when developing policies and interventions to address mental health issues and promote overall well-being.

Air pollution and fertility

Air pollution has been linked to a decrease in fertility in both men and women.

Impact on Men

A study of 6,475 men aged 15-49 found that those who breathed in more polluted air had lower sperm quality. Specifically, they had abnormally shaped and smaller sperm.

Impact on Women

A review of 11 articles found that nitrogen dioxide and ozone were associated with a reduced live birth rate for women undergoing IVF procedures. Additionally, in the general population, particulate matter of 2.5 mm and between 2.5 and 10 mm were associated with reduced fertility.

Another study found that women who lived close to major roadways had a lower chance of a successful embryo implantation and live birth than those who lived farther away from heavy traffic pollution.

Mechanisms

There are several mechanisms that may explain the impact of air pollution on fertility:

• Endocrine disruptor activity: Pollutants such as PAHs and heavy metals contained in particulate matter can act as endocrine disruptors, affecting gonadal steroidogenesis and gametogenesis.
• Generation of oxidative stress: Pollutants can generate reactive oxygen species, which cause alterations in DNA, proteins, and membrane lipids.
• Modifications of DNA: Pollutants can form DNA adducts, leading to modifications in gene expression and/or the appearance of epigenetic mutations.
• Epigenetic modifications: Pollutants can also lead to epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, which can impact fertility and be transmitted to future generations.

Impact on Pregnancy

Air pollution has also been linked to negative outcomes during pregnancy, including an increased risk of miscarriage and stillbirth.

Recovery

While the specific recovery methods for air pollution-related fertility issues are not clear, reducing exposure to air pollution is likely to be beneficial. This can include wearing masks, avoiding heavily polluted areas, and improving air quality through stricter limits and better traffic control measures.

Air pollution and autism

Air pollution has been linked to an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children, with the greatest risk occurring during the third trimester of pregnancy and early childhood. Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from sources such as vehicle exhaust, wood-burning, and power plant emissions has been identified as a significant contributor. The association between air pollution and ASD has been observed in various countries, including the United States, China, Sweden, and Denmark.

Evidence and Studies

Several studies have found a positive association between maternal exposure to PM2.5 and the risk of ASD. A meta-analysis from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health reported a 64% increased risk of ASD with exposure to 10 micrograms of PM2.5 per cubic meter of air during early childhood and a 31% increased risk during prenatal periods. The greatest risk was found during the third trimester of pregnancy.

A cohort study from southern Sweden also found associations between exposure to local PM2.5 during pregnancy and an increased risk of ASD in children. The study investigated various sources of PM2.5, including residential wood-burning and road traffic-related sources, and found that both contributed to the association with ASD.

Biological Mechanisms and Risk Factors

The exact biological mechanisms linking air pollution and ASD are still being elucidated, but oxidative stress, inflammation, neurotoxicity, and endocrine disruption have been proposed as potential pathways. Genetic and environmental factors also play a role, and air pollution may interact with genetic predispositions to increase the risk of ASD.

Prevalence and Impact

The prevalence of ASD diagnoses has been increasing in recent years, and air pollution is considered one of the emerging risk factors. The impact of air pollution on neurodevelopment and autism is significant, and further research is needed to understand the molecular pathways involved and to determine specific cause-and-effect associations.

Air pollution and skin health

Air pollution is a mix of many components, and it is difficult to pinpoint which elements are responsible for skin changes. However, the skin is one of the main targets of pollutants, which reach both the superficial and deeper layers of the skin. The skin barrier function and skin hydration are among the most immediate and significant threats that air pollution poses to our skin.

The Impact of Air Pollution on Skin Health

The substances in air pollution damage skin cells and interfere with the skin's ability to repair itself. The result is age spots, wrinkles, and loose folds. Ninety-two percent of people worldwide live in cities that do not meet World Health Organization (WHO) air quality standards, and the combined number of deaths associated with indoor and outdoor air pollution is 6.5 million.

Air pollution is defined by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) as the contamination of outdoor and indoor environments by any chemical, physical, or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere. The main outdoor air pollutants are gaseous compounds (nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide), particulate matter, and heavy metals. Other classes of air pollutants are persistent organic compounds, semi-volatile compounds, and polyaromatic hydrocarbons.

The Effects of Air Pollution on Skin Health

The effects of air pollution on skin health include an increased risk of skin cancer, skin sensitivity, premature skin aging, discoloration, dryness, dullness, and roughness. There is a clear correlation between spikes in air pollution and increases in the number of people suffering from skin problems such as acne, hives, and eczema.

Protecting and Restoring Skin Health

To protect and restore skin health, it is recommended to:

• Use a 2-step process for cleansing, including a cleansing wipe or makeup remover pad, and a second wash with a cleanser.
• Use products containing Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), which has been shown to reduce the negative effects of urban dust, cigarette smoke, diesel dust, and benzo-a-pyrene.
• Take an oral supplement containing Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), such as GliSODin, which has been shown to increase the body's antioxidant defenses and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Ensure proper hydration by drinking water and using skin products.
• Use an SPF product to protect against UV radiation, one of the biggest environmental stressors.
• Consume antioxidants such as Vitamin A, C, D, and B-complex, either in topical or oral form.
• Incorporate adaptogens such as Superoxide dismutase, CoQ10, Resveratrol, ashwaganda, curcumin, and ginseng, through fruits, vegetables, and spices, or supplements.

While air pollution poses a significant threat to skin health, taking protective and restorative measures can help mitigate its effects.

Air pollution and exercise

Air pollution is a serious issue that can have detrimental effects on human health, and it is important to understand the implications of exercising in poor air quality. Here is some essential information on the topic:

The Impact of Air Pollution on the Body

Air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter and ozone, can have far-reaching consequences for human health. These pollutants can easily penetrate the bloodstream and lead to a range of respiratory and cardiovascular issues. Particulate matter can cause both local and systemic inflammation, depositing in the lungs or translocating to various organs through the bloodstream. Ozone, on the other hand, irritates the airways, impairing lung function and defence mechanisms, and contributing to airway hyper-responsiveness associated with lung inflammation.

Exercise and Air Pollution

Exercise increases the volume of air inhaled, which means a higher volume of polluted air enters the body. Additionally, exercise increases the proportion of very small particles that deposit in the airways instead of being breathed out. If the intensity is high enough, individuals switch from breathing through their noses to their mouths, bypassing the nasal filter provided by nose hairs. As a result, exercise can increase susceptibility to air pollution and exacerbate its effects, even in healthy individuals.

Precautions and Recommendations

While the negative effects of air pollution on individuals who exercise are concerning, it is important to note that regular exercise stimulates physiological processes that counteract the detrimental impacts of air pollution. For instance, exercise can reduce systemic inflammation and lower blood pressure. Therefore, in most cases, the benefits of exercise outweigh the risks associated with air pollution.

However, it is crucial to take certain precautions when exercising in poor air quality. Firstly, individuals should be mindful of the time of day, as air quality is often worst around midday, especially during the summer. Exercising during the early morning or late evening when pollution levels are generally lower can help mitigate the risks. Secondly, it is important to choose an appropriate exercise location, avoiding areas close to sources of pollution such as busy roads. Indoor workouts or alternative outdoor locations can be safer options.

Additionally, individuals should be aware of their medical history and any pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, which may make them more susceptible to the harmful effects of air pollution. In such cases, indoor workouts or consulting a physician before starting a new exercise program is recommended. It is also essential to monitor symptoms and seek medical advice if experiencing issues such as headaches, irritation of the ears, nose, or throat, or worsening asthma symptoms.

Overall Guidance

While air pollution poses a significant health risk, it should not deter individuals from exercising. By being mindful of air quality levels, adjusting exercise routines, and taking appropriate precautions, individuals can maintain a healthy lifestyle while minimising the negative impacts of air pollution.

Frequently asked questions