The risk of heart disease in Sri Lanka rise on increase in air pollution

Air pollution has increased the risk of heart disease in Sri Lanka like elsewhere in the world. Further proper research is needed regarding the increasing trends of heart diseases caused by air pollution. It is best to wear a KN 95 mask when traveling outdoors around the city, a top cardiologist said.

“Air pollution has long been considered a significant environmental concern, but its impact on human health is now coming to the forefront with new research.” addressing a news briefing yesterday, 26th Dr. Anidu Pathirana, Consultant Cardiologist at the National Hospital of Colombo said.

Dr. Anindu, Cardiologist, said that due to the influence of the world, the burning of fossil fuels in the country, the industries that emit excessive smoke, the atmosphere in this country is also being polluted, and if proper measures are not taken in the future, this situation may become even worse.

“As such, air pollution has been identified as a major risk factor of developing heart disease,” he highlighted.

“When you breathe in poor quality air, the air pollutants can travel deep into your bloodstream through your lungs, and to your heart. This can increase your risk of developing heart and circulatory diseases,” Dr. Anindu Pathirana underscored.

Also he said that air Pollution does not only affect patients suffering from heart disease but also other non-communicable diseases such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, cancer diseases and chronic lung illnesses.

Air pollution is contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere. According to WHO data, almost the entire global population (99%) is exposed to air pollution levels that are higher than recommended levels.

Dr. Pathirana, who points out that various countries are taking this situation seriously and are following various protection methods, emphasizes that it is essential that Sri Lanka also deals with this situation with special interest.

Thus, it is essential to expand use of clean fuels and technologies to reduce household air pollution and protect health. These include solar, electricity, bio-gas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), natural gas, alcohol fuels.

However, Dr. Anidu Pathirana points out that more research should be done to properly disclose the facts regarding these conditions in Sri Lanka.

People at risk of heart disease already may experience more adverse effects just by having to inhale and exhale polluted air.” he said.

Therefore, Dr. Anindu Pathirana recommends that, even in Sri Lanka, that it is best to wear a KN 95 mask when traveling outdoors around the cities.

END.