Air Pollution Linked to Nearly 2 Lakh CVD Deaths in Uttar Pradesh Annually

Lucknow: Air pollution is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD), claiming nearly 2 lakh lives annually in Uttar Pradesh. This alarming statistic has raised concerns among cardiologists, particularly in India, where a significant portion of CVD-related deaths occur in the productive age group of 40-69 years.

Tiny particulate matter in polluted air enters the bloodstream upon inhalation and damages blood vessel walls, narrowing and hardening them. This can elevate blood pressure, increase the risk of clot formation, and disrupt normal heart rhythms, leading to heart attacks, strokes, or heart failure.

According to the World Heart Federation, over 3.5 million people worldwide succumb to heart disease and strokes linked to air pollution, with 31% of these deaths occurring in India.

Experts stress the importance of studying local and regional patterns of air pollution’s impact on heart health and developing evidence-based policy interventions. Individuals, especially those with pre-existing heart conditions, should remain vigilant and monitor their health closely during periods of high air pollution.

In addition to medical interventions, experts from alternative medicine recommend incorporating breathing exercises such as pranayama into daily routines. These exercises can help cleanse the lungs and improve blood circulation, contributing to overall heart health.