Air pollution is a daily concern that can negatively impact lung health, according to medical professionals at Baylor College of Medicine. During Lung Cancer Awareness Month, experts from the institution highlighted the risks associated with exposure to pollutants such as particulate matter from smoke, dust, burning fossil fuels, and wildfires.
“We are happy to see the number of smokers declining, but unfortunately, the amount of air pollutants that we’re inhaling can definitely affect our lung health too,” said Dr. Farrah Kheradmand, professor of medicine and pulmonologist at Baylor.
Dr. Kheradmand explained that inhaling smoke introduces tiny inorganic particles into the lungs, which can damage lung tissue and disrupt immune cells responsible for protection.
The effects of environmental pollutants vary among individuals. Genetic factors may influence how a person’s body responds to air pollution. Symptoms resulting from exposure can include a scratchy throat, itchy eyes, shortness of breath, and a persistent cough.
“If you develop a persistent cough when you walk outdoors, then it is time to alert your physician,” Kheradmand said.
Dr. Elaine Symanski, professor in the Center for Precision Environmental Health at Baylor College of Medicine, noted that research indicates long-term exposure to air pollution may contribute to chronic illnesses such as heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Populations most vulnerable to the health effects of air pollution include older adults; individuals with a history of smoking—defined as smoking at least one pack per day for 20 years—who have developed chronic obstructive lung disease; and people with asthma regardless of age.
“Pay attention to local air quality alerts and ozone action days as communicated by the Houston Health Department or the National Weather Service,” said Dr. Kristina Walker Whitworth, associate professor in the Center for Precision Environmental Health. “Generally, if you are a member of a vulnerable population, consider avoiding time outdoors during these alerts.”
Kheradmand also advised against outdoor exercise on days with poor air quality: "I wouldn’t recommend jogging on a day where the air quality is poor. The air quality should be an indicator for you not to do a lot of heavy breathing exercises outdoors."
