We often discuss the link between high levels of air pollution and respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD. But there are other, lesser known, lung conditions that are becoming more prevalent in cities with pollution problems.
Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis or HP is an immune system disorder that causes inflammation in the lungs. The connective tissue in the lungs, known as the interstitium, is often the main area affected. Symptoms include fever, chills, sickness, cough, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, rash, swelling and headaches, all of which can be short or long term.
A recent study carried out by scientists from Jaipur in India, discovered that the majority of people living with HP were from large cities, where ambient air pollution is dangerously high. This is the first time this type of immune disease has been linked to air pollution. It’s still early days but the team believe there is more to be investigated and are calling for further studies to be carried out.
You can find more on this study here. https://www.ersnet.org/the-society/news/hypersensitivity-pneumonitis-in-urban-cities-linked-to-levels
