Effect of pollution on joints also
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Pollution effect on joints: Delhi’s smog is not only affecting the lungs, but is also seriously affecting the joints. According to experts, air pollution is becoming a major reason for the increase in cases of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. Micro pollutants like PM 2.5 not only affect health by reaching the lungs, but also harm joints by increasing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Experts of the Indian Rheumatology Association (IRA) have warned that due to pollution, even healthy people can become victims of serious diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. This is no longer just an individual health problem but has become a major public health crisis.
Recently held IRACON 2025 in New Delhi Rheumatologists presented shocking figures at the conference. Experts said that in Delhi-NCR rheumatoid arthritis The increase in cases is the result of pollution. Prolonged exposure to PM 2.5, nitrogen oxides and ozone can increase problems like swelling, pain and disability in joints. Doctors at AIIMS and other big hospitals confirmed that even people with no family history are developing the disease due to pollution. It is spreading rapidly especially among the youth and working class. This news indicates that pollution is not limited to lung disease only, but is affecting the entire body and especially the joints.
Danger to joints due to pollution
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissue, especially the joints. According to experts, pollution has become a major reason for the increase in this disease. People living in highly polluted cities like Delhi are constantly exposed to PM 2.5 and other toxic particles, which increase inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Due to this, the immune system becomes overactive and the bones and muscles of the joints start getting damaged.
Dr. Uma Kumar, Head of the Department of Rheumatology at AIIMS, New Delhi, Dr. Bimlesh Dhar Pandey, Director of Rheumatology at Fortis Hospital and Conference Organizing Secretary, Dr. Neeraj Jain, Vice Chairman of the Department of Rheumatology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Dr. Pulin Gupta, Professor and Rheumatologist at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Senior Director of the Department of Rheumatology at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital. Consultant and Conference Chairman Dr. Rohini Handa As experts said, pollution is not only increasing new cases but is also increasing the intensity of the disease in existing patients. Lack of greenery, constant traffic and dirty air are further increasing the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. Doctors say that it is not just a disease but has become a social and public health crisis.
prevention methods
Use masks regularly in polluted areas.
Install air purifier in the house and take care of proper circulation of air.
Quit smoking and tobacco consumption completely.
Increase immunity with healthy diet and regular exercise.
Consult a doctor in time for problems like pain or swelling in joints.
Increase green spaces and make joint efforts in the society to reduce pollution.