Strong link found between air pollution and diabetes
A new study, designed to estimate the harmful effects of poor air quality, revealed a significant correlation between diabetes and pollution levels. The conclusion, the authors hope, will help to shape future guidelines.
Air pollution and diabetes are responsible for millions of death globally.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution can lead to lung cancer, respiratory infection, stroke, and even heart disease.
Air pollution is a global issue, but low-income cities are the most affected.
The air quality database — which was updated in 2018 — shows that more than 80 percent of people who live in urban areas breathe air that does not meet the WHO guidelines.
Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the body's ability to produce the hormone insulin is reduced, leading to high blood sugar levels. Diabetes can be treated, but complications can lead to kidney failure, heart disease, and stroke.
Data from the WHO show that in 2014, 8.5 percent of adults developed diabetes, and that in 2015, this health condition resulted in 1.6 million deaths.
