How does air pollution affect the lungs? Important information for thalassemia patients
Experts believe that increasing air pollution in cities is having a serious impact on the health of thalassemia patients. Thalassemia is typically diagnosed in terms of blood tests and transfusions. However, it is now being seen that “the air we breathe” is also becoming an important factor.
As a pediatric hematologist, checking hemoglobin levels, administering iron chelation, and caring for children who struggle daily are a daily experience. However, recently, changes in the health of these children due to air pollution have been clearly visible.
For children with thalassemia major, life is a delicate balancing act. Their bodies are already under stress due to chronic anemia and iron overload. Therefore, air pollution is not just a minor nuisance but a serious factor affecting their entire lives.
Thalassemia patients are more vulnerable to environmental toxins, which can cause 'double stress' on the heart and lungs
Fine particles are inhaled and reach deep into the lungs, where they mix with the bloodstream and cause inflammation.
Oxidative stress:
Thalassemia is a disease in which excess iron leads to increased oxidative stress. Air pollution accelerates this process and damages cells.
Respiratory reserve:
In many patients, breathing capacity is already limited due to iron deposits in the chest and lungs. Polluted air further reduces this capacity by making the airways more sensitive.
Effect on the heart
The most serious impact of iron overload is on the heart. Air pollution increases blood pressure and thickens the blood, further straining an already stressed heart. Dr. Lisa Bulsara, Pediatric Hematologist and BMT Physician at Ruby Hall Clinic, said, “When the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaches 'severe' levels, patients experience noticeable changes. Children who are usually stable suddenly become more tired and the time between transfusions decreases. Even with proper medical treatment, the environment can impact their health.”
What is the solution?
Thalassemia should be viewed not just as a blood disease but also as an environmental health issue.
Clinical Vigilance: Include environmental history in screening, and advise on N95 masks and quality air filtration.
Nutritional support: Increasing your intake of a diet rich in antioxidants may help reduce some of the stress caused by pollution.
Policy-level efforts:
According to experts, treatment alone is not enough for thalassemia patients, but providing a clean and safe environment is equally important. This is crucial not only for keeping patients alive but also for enabling them to live in a healthy and safe environment.
PC: SaamTV