If you thought air pollution was just a threat to lung health, you need to think again.
As we observe World Brain Stroke Day on October 29, let's understand how a low AQI means high brain stroke risk.
"Air pollution is one of the biggest health hazards to the environment," says Dr Vinit Banga, Director of Neurology at Fortis Hospital.
Can air pollution increase the risk of a brain stroke?
Air pollution may also affect cognitive healthThe possible effects of air pollution extend beyond stroke.
Air pollution can do more than damage your lungs. Doctor explains how prolonged exposure to polluted air can affect blood vessels, brain health and stroke risk
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If you thought air pollution was just a threat to lung health, you need to think again.
Prolonged exposure to polluted air, according to several studies, can also affect the brain and cardiovascular system, potentially increasing the risk of stroke and cognitive problems.
Pollutants released by vehicles, industries and the burning of fuels can enter the body through inhalation. Over time, exposure to these pollutants may trigger inflammation and oxidative stress, affecting the body's normal functions.
As we observe World Brain Stroke Day on October 29, let's understand how a low AQI means high brain stroke risk.
"Air pollution is one of the biggest health hazards to the environment," says Dr Vinit Banga, Director of Neurology at Fortis Hospital. He explains that pollutants such as fine particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide and other harmful gases can enter the body when we breathe and may have effects that extend beyond the respiratory system.
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How polluted air affects blood vessels
Fine particulate matter, particularly PM2.5, is small enough. Exposure to these particles can also affect the cardiovascular system.
"Fine particulate matter can go deep inside the lungs, and some of the particulates or their effects can be harmful to the bloodstream," Dr Banga explains. He adds that this can damage the lining of blood vessels and contribute to circulation problems, high blood pressure and atherosclerosis, a condition in which fatty deposits build up inside the arteries.
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Over time, these changes can affect how efficiently blood flows through the body. When blood vessels supplying the brain are affected, the consequences can be particularly serious.
Can air pollution increase the risk of a brain stroke?
The brain depends on a constant supply of oxygen-rich blood to function properly. Any disruption to this supply can damage brain cells, making stroke a medical emergency.
"An ischaemic stroke is caused by clots preventing oxygen-filled blood from reaching the brain. Haemorrhagic strokes can be caused by a ruptured blood vessel in the brain," Dr Banga explains.
Air pollution has been linked in research to an increased risk of stroke. Pollutant exposure may contribute to this risk through several pathways, including inflammation, blood vessel damage and elevated blood pressure. These effects can influence the processes involved in both the formation of blood clots and damage to blood vessels.
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"There have been many research studies showing the connection between air pollution and stroke, cognitive problems, and various other brain issues," he says.
This does not mean that everyone exposed to polluted air will suffer a stroke. However, long-term exposure can add to the factors that threaten vascular and brain health, particularly among people who already have underlying risk factors.
Air pollution may also affect cognitive health
The possible effects of air pollution extend beyond stroke. Research has associated prolonged exposure to polluted air with cognitive problems and other neurological concerns.
Inflammation and oxidative stress may affect normal bodily processes, while damage to blood vessels can interfere with the circulation needed to support the brain. The extent of the impact can depend on factors such as pollution levels, duration of exposure and an individual's overall health.
Dr Banga emphasises that air pollution should be viewed as more than a respiratory concern, given its potential effects on the brain and vascular system.
How to protect your brain from air pollution
While individuals cannot control pollution levels on their own, they can take steps to reduce exposure, especially on days when air quality is poor.
"To protect the brain and vascular system from the negative impact of pollution, it is necessary to avoid breathing polluted air as much as possible," says Dr Banga.
He recommends monitoring local air quality and reducing strenuous outdoor exercise when pollution levels are high. People can consider moving their workouts indoors during periods of heavy pollution, particularly if they live in areas with consistently poor air quality.
Indoor ventilation also matters. Rooms should be ventilated appropriately when outdoor air quality allows, while exposure to outdoor pollutants should be limited during severe pollution episodes. Avoiding indoor sources of pollution, such as tobacco smoke, can also help reduce overall exposure.
People with existing health conditions or a higher risk of stroke should be especially mindful of air quality and follow medical advice on managing their risk factors.
