This article explores the interrelationship between environmental pollution and lifestyle disorders, highlighting the mechanisms through which pollutants influence health and the role of lifestyle choices in exacerbating these effects.

In recent decades, rapid industrialisation and urbanisation have led to increased environmental pollution. This phenomenon, coupled with lifestyle choices such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and substance abuse, has contributed to a rise in lifestyle disorders, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health issues [1]. Understanding the link between environmental pollution and lifestyle disorders is crucial for developing effective public health strategies.

Environmental pollution: Definitions and types

1. Environmental pollution refers to the introduction of harmful substances or pollutants into the environment. The primary types of pollution include:
2. Air pollution: Emissions from vehicles, factories, and burning fossil fuels lead to decreased air quality [2].
3. Water pollution: Contamination of water bodies due to industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and plastic waste [3].
4. Soil pollution: The introduction of hazardous chemicals into the soil, impacting food quality and human health [4].
5. Noise pollution: Chronic exposure to loud sounds impacts mental health and well-being [5].

Mechanisms of impact on health

Environmental pollutants act through various mechanisms to influence health:

1. Respiratory diseases: Air pollutants, such as particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide, are linked to respiratory disorders like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) [6].
2. Endocrine disruption: Chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates interfere with hormonal functions, leading to metabolic disorders [7].
3. Neurological effects: Exposure to heavy metals, such as lead and mercury, is associated with cognitive impairments and developmental disorders [8].

Lifestyle disorders: An overview

Lifestyle disorders comprise a range of health issues primarily associated with individual choices and behaviours. Common lifestyle disorders include:

1. Obesity: A result of poor dietary habits, physical inactivity, and genetic factors, obesity is a significant risk factor for diabetes and heart disease [9].
2. Cardiovascular diseases: Lifestyle choices, such as smoking and poor nutrition, contribute heavily to cardiovascular health issues [10].
3. Mental health disorders: Stress, lack of exercise, and poor nutrition can lead to anxiety and depression, exacerbated by environmental factors [11].

Interconnection between environmental pollution and lifestyle disorders

5.1. Shared Risk Factors

Many pollutants mimic lifestyle-related risk factors, such as poor nutrition and lack of exercise. The presence of pollutants can increase oxidative stress and inflammation, which are also seen in lifestyle disorders [12].

5.2. Vulnerable populations

Low-income communities often face a dual burden of high exposure to pollutants and limited access to healthy lifestyle options. This exacerbates health disparities, making them more susceptible to lifestyle disorders [13].

5.3. Feedback loop

The cycle of pollution and unhealthy lifestyles creates a feedback loop. Pollution contributes to health issues that prevent individuals from adopting healthier lifestyles, further perpetuating the cycle of poor health and environmental degradation [14].

Addressing the challenge

Effective intervention strategies must emphasise both environmental and lifestyle factors:

1. Policy reforms: Enacting stricter regulations on emissions and waste management while promoting sustainable practices across sectors [15].
2. Public awareness campaigns: Educating communities on the importance of environmental health and making healthier lifestyle choices [16].
3. Community engagement: Encouraging community initiatives that promote green spaces, clean air, and healthy food options [17].

Disclaimer- The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of M3 India.

About the author of this article: Dr Partha Ghosh, BNYS, MD(YS), is a general physician and a medical writer from Siliguri, Darjeeling.