Bad Effects of Environmental Pollution on Health

 Environmental pollution is the biggest problem nowadays. Anthropogenic activities are the major cause of environmental pollution. Therefore there is a need for mitigation and adaptation strategies to minimize the effects of environmental pollution. It has adverse effects on human health such as chronic or acute disorders. In this article, we will discuss the bad effects of environmental pollution on health. Read the entire article thoroughly to know more about it. Before wasting time first of all let’s discuss environmental pollution.

Environmental Pollution

Environmental pollution refers to the introduction of harmful pollutants into the environment that cause adverse effects on natural resources, ecosystems, and human health. It can caused by various sources such as industrial activities, vehicle emissions, improper waste disposal, and deforestation.

To minimize the effects of environmental pollution on human health there should be proper mitigation and adaptation strategies. We should know about it and we also should know how it will prevent. Our government should play a role in the prevention of environmental pollution. Pollution causes 7 million deaths per year.

Major types of Environmental Pollution 

There are many types of environmental pollution. However, the major types of environmental pollution are:

Air Pollution

Air pollution is defined as the presence of harmful substances or pollutants, such as smoke, gases, and particulate matter, in the atmosphere. These pollutants come from volcanic eruptions forest fires, and human activities, including transportation, and industries.

The major air pollutants are Carbon monoxide(CO), Nitrogen dioxide(NO2), Ozone(O3), Sulphur dioxide(SO2), Lead, and Volatile Organic Compounds(VOCs) etc.Air pollution causes many diseases especially respiratory diseases like bronchitis. Moreover, it causes asthma, bronchitis, dementia, and heart attacks. Air pollution produces around 4.2 million yearly early deaths. Keeping in mind the above one should think about the strategies to reduce air pollution.

Water Pollution 

Water pollution refers to the contamination of water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, oceans, and groundwater, with harmful substances or pollutants. These pollutants can come from various sources, including industrial activities, and agriculture runoff. The pollutants such as pesticides, fertilizers, pharmaceutical products, nitrates, and plastics cause water pollution. It can cause severe diseases like jaundice, cholera, and hepatitis.

Life under water bodies like rivers and lakes consumes these wastes and it may occur. When we use polluted water for drinking or cooking the toxic substances in water enter into our bodies and damage our immune system. Approximately 3,575,000 people are exposed to death every year.

Land Pollution

Land pollution refers to the degradation or contamination of the Earth’s surface due to human activities. It involves the accumulation of solid waste and pollutants that can negatively impact soil quality, vegetation growth, and the overall ecosystem.

The major land pollutants are heavy metals such as lead and mercury, pharmaceuticals, antibiotics, etc. Land pollution causes many diseases like cancer, heart disease, respiratory disorders, cholera, jaundice, reproductive disorders kidney diseases, etc. The death rate by land pollution is 8.3 million people yearly.

Adverse Effects of Environmental Pollution

Environmental pollution is the main cause of diseases. We would never have any disease if we would take care of our environment. Here are some diseases which are caused by environmental pollution.

Increase Risk of Heart Disease

Environmental pollution may increase the risk of heart disease. When we breathe in polluted air harmful pollutants of air enter into our lungs through our bloodstreams. Indeed these pollutants also affect the heart thus it can increase the risk of heart diseases.

Respiratory Problems

Respiratory problems are caused by environmental pollution, especially through air pollution. The harmful pollutants in the air enter into our lungs by breathing and cause inflammation in the lungs. Therefore air pollution is the major cause of respiratory problems.

Coughing

Coughing is caused by air pollution. When we breathe in polluted air, the toxic particles may enter the airways and settle down there. It may lead to coughing. Indeed wheezing is caused by air pollution, especially in children.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is caused by contaminated food. When we eat contaminated food, the pollutants enter our stomachs and disturb the stomach. It may cause diarrhoea. Therefore to minimize Diarrhea one should give particular attention to hygienic food.

Throat and Nasal irritation

When we breathe in highly toxic environmental pollution the dust particles enter into our lungs and cause tightness of the chest which leads to irritation in the throat. Nasal irritation is caused by dust particles in the air. The pollutants in the air, especially dust when entered into the nose through breathing cause irritation in the nasal.

Neurological & Reproductive Disorder

Air pollution causes neurological disorders like Alzhimer’sdisease, Parkinson’s disease, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Indeed it also has a very bad impact on the reproductive system. It lowers birth weight. Air pollution affects badly during pregnancy and it also suppresses testosterone synthesis in the testicles.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is caused by air pollution. Dust particles, mist, or harmful gases in the air when inhaled, affect the process of the lungs and also change the cell replication pattern in the lungs which leads to lung cancer.

Wrapping up 

Environmental pollution has negative effects on our health. It can lead to respiratory problems like asthma as well as it can cardiovascular issues. The pollutants in the air, water, and soil can also increase the risk of certain diseases, including cancer. We need to take action and make changes to protect our environment. We hope this article helps find all the data about the bad effects of environmental pollution on health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Main Types of Environmental Pollution that Can Affect Human Health?
The main types of environmental pollution that can adversely affect human health are air pollution, water pollution, and land pollution.
How Does Air Pollution Impact Human Health?
Air pollution causes respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and other lung diseases.
What Health Risks are Associated with Water Pollution?
Water pollution can cause various health risks, including waterborne diseases such as cholera and dysentery.
What are the Long-Term Consequences of Exposure to Environmental Pollution?
Long-term exposure to environmental pollution is associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases such as respiratory disorders, and cardiovascular problems.