A large number of epidemiological studies have highlighted the adverse effects of air pollution on diabetes. As per the Global Burden of Disease Study by Lancet estimated, approximately a fifth of the global burden of type 2 diabetes was attributable to PM2·5 exposure. With 99% of the global population residing in areas where air pollution levels are above current WHO air quality guidelines, and increasing concern in regard to the common drivers of air pollution and climate change, there is a compelling need to understand the connection between air pollution and diabetes.

The science behind the causality

Globally, an estimated 536 million adults have diabetes, either diagnosed or undiagnosed, a number that will increase to 783 million by 2045. Increased exposure to fine particulate matter air pollution (PM2.5) is associated with increases in blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) across the glycemic spectrum, including normoglycemia, prediabetes, and all forms of diabetes. With air pollution causing over 2 million deaths annually in India. The incidence of diabetes further intensifies the public health burden in India.

Who is most at risk?

While air pollution affects everyone, some groups are more vulnerable to its harmful effects. Individuals with existing health conditions, such as obesity or cardiovascular diseases, are at a higher risk. Emerging evidence suggests that prenatal exposure to air pollution may increase the risk of gestational diabetes, a condition that can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Additionally, children exposed to air pollution may be at a higher risk of developing type 1 diabetes, further emphasising the significance of early-life environmental exposures in diabetes. Moreover, people living in urban areas with high pollution levels and older adults are particularly susceptible. Subsequently, a risks analysis using data followed for a median of 10 years found that diabetes increased cumulative risk of cardiovascular death by 1.5-2.5% in both men and women.

How you can protect yourself

While air pollution may not be entirely avoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of diabetes:
Use air quality apps or websites to check the Air Quality Index in your area, especially if you live in a high-pollution zone. Try to stay indoors when pollution levels are high.
Investing in a high-quality air purifier for your home can help reduce indoor air pollution.
Consider wearing a mask with filtration levels at N95 or KN95.
Clean your home thoroughly when common allergen increases during seasonal environmental changes.
Air Purifying plants such as Aloe Vera, Ivy and Spider Plant can be placed in the home and offices.
Dr Devendra Kumar Singh, Professor and Head of the Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sharda Hospital and Sharda Care-HealthCity