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Delhi, November 23 – Amid the ongoing air quality crisis in the Delhi-NCR region, medical experts have raised concerns about the lesser-known impacts of air pollution, warning that prolonged exposure to pollutants could contribute to weight gain, obesity, and hormonal imbalances.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) at 371 on Friday morning, categorizing it as “very poor.” Certain areas, including Anand Vihar (410), Jahangirpuri (426), and Wazirpur (413), recorded AQI levels exceeding 400, indicating severe pollution. A thin layer of smog has continued to engulf the region, further exacerbating health concerns.
Air Pollution’s Metabolic Impact
Dr. Shailly Sharma, Senior Consultant at Cloudnine Hospital, highlighted the connection between air pollution and weight gain. “Air pollution can alter metabolism and cause systemic inflammation, leading to obesity,” she explained. This inflammation, triggered by exposure to pollutants such as particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide, is associated with metabolic disturbances that hinder the body’s ability to manage weight effectively.
She added that air pollution can exacerbate sedentary behaviors by causing respiratory symptoms like coughing and shortness of breath, further limiting physical activity and contributing to weight gain. Additionally, increased insulin resistance—another effect of pollution—has been linked to obesity.
Hormonal Health Risks
Experts have also pointed to the potential hormonal disruptions caused by polluted air. Dr. Vikas Mittal, Director of Respiratory Medicine at CK Birla Hospital, noted that air pollution’s inflammatory effects might impact hormonal balance. “Inflammatory markers in the blood, triggered by air pollution, can disrupt various organ functions and hormonal regulation, leading to metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions including high cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes,” he said.
Research supports these claims. A recent meta-analysis published in BMC Public Health found that prolonged exposure to air pollutants increases oxidative stress, affects fat tissue function, and disrupts dietary habits, all of which contribute to weight and hormonal health issues.
Broader Implications
Beyond metabolic and hormonal concerns, long-term exposure to polluted air has been associated with reduced fertility rates and reproductive health issues. Toxic air impacts immune function and raises inflammation markers, further compounding health risks.
The Urgent Need for Action
As Delhi-NCR struggles with its annual pollution crisis, experts emphasize the need for urgent interventions. Measures like reducing emissions, promoting cleaner energy sources, and increasing green cover could help mitigate the health impacts of poor air quality.
For now, residents are advised to stay indoors, use air purifiers, and wear protective masks to reduce exposure. However, as the evidence grows linking air pollution to a range of health issues, the focus must shift to long-term solutions for cleaner air.
