Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that can be caused or exacerbated by exposure to air pollution. According to the World Health Organization, ambient (outdoor) air pollution is estimated to have caused 4.2 million premature deaths worldwide in 2019. As a result, decreasing exposure to air pollution is critical for lowering the risk of COPD. In this blog, we will explore the causes of air pollution, how it can lead to COPD, and what steps can be taken to reduce the risk.[1] 

Causes of Air Pollution 

• Transportation: Cars, trucks, buses, and other vehicles emit pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter. 
• Industrial Activities: Industrial processes such as manufacturing, mining, and power generation can release pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. 

• Energy Production: The burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas for energy production can release pollutants into the air. 
• Agricultural Activities: Farming practices such as livestock production and the use of fertilizers and pesticides can release pollutants into the air. 
• Natural Sources: Dust and wildfires can also contribute to air pollution. 
• Indoor Air Pollution: Indoor air pollution can also contribute to the problem, particularly in developing countries where cooking and heating with solid fuels is common. 

How Air Pollution Can Lead to COPD 

Air pollution can also contribute to the development of COPD. Long-term exposure to pollutants like particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide can damage the delicate tissues in the lungs, leading to chronic inflammation and scarring of the airways. This damage can make it more difficult for air to flow in and out of the lungs, leading to breathing difficulties and other COPD symptoms.[2] 

Additionally, air pollution can increase the risk of respiratory infections, which can further exacerbate COPD symptoms. Exposure to air pollution has also been linked to increased hospitalizations and mortality rates among COPD patients. [3] 

It is crucial to highlight that COPD is caused by more than just air pollution; smoking is the major cause of the condition. However, reducing exposure to air pollution can still be an important step in preventing and managing COPD, particularly for those who are already living with the disease. 

Steps to Reduce the Risk of COPD 

Reducing exposure to air pollution is crucial to reduce the risk of COPD. [4] 

Here are some steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of COPD caused by air pollution: 

• Reduce Exposure to Outdoor Air Pollution: Individuals can take several steps to reduce their exposure to outdoor air pollution, such as: 

Using public transportation, bicycle or opting for walking instead of driving alone, would lead to less emission of harmful gases like carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides.   

Avoid outdoor exercise during times of bad air quality, particularly in urban areas.  

Plant trees and greenery around your home to help with air purification. 

Use air filters in your home or workplace to reduce exposure to indoor air pollution. [5] 

• Quit Smoking: Smoking is the major cause of COPD, and quitting is one of the most effective things people can do to lower their chance of acquiring the illness. 
• Use Clean Energy Sources: Using clean energy sources, such as solar or wind power, can reduce the amount of pollution produced by energy production. 
• Support Policies to Reduce Air Pollution: Individuals can also support efforts to reduce air pollution by advocating for stricter emissions standards for vehicles and industrial activities. 

• Support Research into Air Pollution and COPD: Research into the relationship between air pollution and COPD is ongoing. By supporting research, individuals can help to raise awareness of COPD and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. 

Wrap-Up  

Reducing exposure to air pollution is an important step toward lowering the risk of COPD, and it is something that we can all work toward. By taking steps such as using public transportation, supporting clean energy sources, and advocating for policies to reduce air pollution, we can create a future with cleaner air and healthier lungs. 

Reference: 

1. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ambient-(outdoor)-air-quality-and-health  
2. https://erj.ersjournals.com/content/43/1/250  
3. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/ebiom/article/PIIS2352-3964(22)00178-5/fulltext  
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4311076/  
5. https://www.healthpartners.com/blog/air-quality-index/#:~:text=Air%20quality%20refers%20to%20the,our%20lungs%20and%20overall%20health.