Air Pollution's Effects on Asthma

Exposure to air pollution can result in increased asthma. In particular, high levels of diesel fuel exhaust can cause higher levels of asthma in people living or working on those areas. Studies showed that black carbon as opposed to small particulate exhaust matter and or sulfates was significantly correlated with decreased lung function. It's the body's reaction to these chemicals that can lead to an increased risk of asthma.The chemicals in air pollution interact with the body and can cause physical and chemical reactions that can increase the risk of asthma. The changes caused by air pollution include increase in inflammatory mediators. One proposed mechanism for this increase is epigenetic changes caused by DNA methylation. Black carbon, a common result of incomplete combustion often manifesting as soot,  might be a proxy for exposure to benzene, a known carcinogen, in the ambient air coming from traffic pollution. This phenomenon appears to lead to increase homocysteine in the blood.It has been suggested that ingestion of folate may lead to reversing the risk of asthma in areas of high air pollution. Folate, or folic acid, often comes in the form of vitamin B9, which is present in leafy vegetables, cereals, and breads. A lack of folic acid can cause problems and may lead to an increased risk of cancer, the risk of which is already significant in areas with high levels of air pollution.

If you're living in an area with high levels of air pollution, particularly from diesel fuel, and you've experienced any ill effects or asthma like symptoms, make an appointment with a specialist to learn more.

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