New Delhi, November 22 (IANS). Doctors have issued a warning regarding poor air quality in the national capital, saying that air pollutants can cause weight gain, obesity rates and hormonal imbalance, apart from respiratory and cardiovascular problems.
The air quality in Delhi-NCR was recorded in the ‘very poor’ category on Friday morning, with a thin layer of smog blanketing the region. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s average air quality index (AQI) at 7.15 am stood at 371.
In seven areas of Delhi, AQI levels remained above 400 and between 450. AQI was 410 in Anand Vihar, 411 in Bawana, 426 in Jahangirpuri, 402 in Mundka, 410 in Nehru Nagar, 402 in Shadipur and 413 in Wazirpur.
Obstetrician and gynecologist Dr Shaili Sharma, senior consultant and associate director of Cloudnine Hospital, told IANS, “Air pollution disturbs the metabolic system. Which has a direct effect on hormones. This may increase weight. Due to which you can become a victim of obesity.
Shaili Sharma said, “Air pollution can increase passive behavior as it can cause certain respiratory symptoms like cough and shortness of breath which can hamper physical activities and lead to weight gain. It also increases insulin resistance which increases obesity.
Recent studies have shown that exposure to PM, nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide present in air pollution can cause systemic inflammation and metabolic disturbances, which are the main causes of weight gain.
A meta-analysis published in BMC Public Health in July found that air pollution may affect metabolic systems by affecting inflammation in adipose tissue, increasing oxidative stress and altering individual dietary habits.
Dr. Vikas Mittal, pulmonologist and director of the Department of Respiratory Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, told IANS, “Although there have been reports of metabolic syndrome and obesity due to air pollution, there is less research on the impact of air pollution on the metabolic system and hormones.” Nothing has been clearly said.
-IANS
MKS/KR
