New Delhi: air pollution is no longer only a respiratory threat, but a taxpayer to heart attacks and cardiovascular diseasesExperts emphasized a summit here on Friday. Speaking at the event, Sandeep Bansal, a medical superintendent of the VMMC Hospital and Safdarjung, highlighted the link “often overlooked” between the quality of the air and the health of the heart. He said that while common perception links contamination with lung diseases, reality is much more alarming.
“Air pollution kills mainly through cardiovascular diseases. Fine particles, known as PM2.5, deeply penetrates the bloodstream and oxidize cholesterol, triggering plate breaks that can lead to acute heart attacks,” Bansal said.
He cited a study conducted at the Safdarjung hospital, which found a direct correlation between the increase in PM2.5 levels and an increase in cases of heart attack within the following week.
“We need to understand that air pollution is now the third cause of main death worldwide. It is crucial to join and find effective and sustainable solutions to combat this crisis and protect the health of the heart,” he added.
The “Welfare” disease of Assocam, which began on Friday, presented multiple discussions on panels on issues ranging from the health of women and chronic diseases among the elderly to mental and brain health.
In a session on mental well -being, Rajinder Dhamija, director of the Institute of Human Behavior and Allied Sciences (IHBA), emphasized the importance of cognitive stimulation and quality dream to maintain the health of the brain.
“Challenging your brain with new activities, reading and guaranteeing seven to eight of non -disturbed sleep are essential for mental well -being. A healthy mind plays a vital role in general physical health,” Dhamija explained.
He also addressed increasing cases of depression, anxiety and stress, urging people to adopt simple practices such as meditation, learn new skills and prioritize rest to safeguard their mental health.
Anil Rajput, president of the National Council of CSR of Assocam, highlighted the success of the ‘Welfare disease’ campaign since its launch in 2014, pointing to its role in raising awareness of key health issues.
Rajput described the future focus areas, including sanitation, intestinal health, technology awareness, air pollution and collaboration between agencies.
He also praised government initiatives such as Fit India, Khelo India, Yoga Promotion, Poshan Abhiyan and Eat Right India, emphasizing that with a clear road map, India is moving towards a more informed and healthy society.
