New Delhi, October 9 (IANS). Till now it was believed that rheumatoid arthritis is mostly caused by genetic reasons or disturbances in the body’s immune system. But now scientists and doctors are saying that poor air quality is also becoming a major reason for the increase in this disease.
Recent studies in Europe, China and now India show that small particles called PM 2.5, which remain in the air and reach the inside of the lungs, not only cause lung and heart diseases, but are also promoting this disease of joint inflammation and pain.
Dr. Uma Kumar, head of the rheumatology department of Delhi-based AIIMS, said, “The cases of arthritis are increasing rapidly even in people who live in polluted areas and who do not have a family history of this disease.” Toxic particles present in the air increase inflammation in the body. This causes damage to the joints and the disease spreads rapidly. This problem has now become a serious public health crisis, which cannot be ignored.
Dr. Kumar said this at the 40th Annual Conference of the Indian Rheumatology Association. He told that about 1 percent of adults in India are suffering from this disease, but due to air pollution this number may increase further. This is a matter of concern because rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease and there is no permanent cure, only the symptoms can be controlled.
Dr. Pulin Gupta, Professor and Rheumatologist at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, said that arthritis is being seen in more severe form in patients living in polluted areas. These patients are in more trouble than normal patients.
Currently, many researches have also proved that air pollutants like PM2.5, nitrogen oxide and ozone increase the risk of joint diseases. Especially those people whose genes carry the risk of this disease are even more affected. People who live near traffic areas are also more likely to get arthritis because the air there is more polluted.
Health experts say that this disease has become a big challenge in today’s time. To stop this, just taking medicine is not enough. People themselves will have to make changes in their daily routine, such as staying away from polluted areas, wearing masks while going out, and adopting a healthy lifestyle. Along with this, the government and local administration will also have to take steps. Greenery will have to be increased in cities, pollution will have to be strictly controlled, and clean and environment-friendly transportation options will have to be increased.
–IANS
PK/GKT
