Air Pollution Now Poses Greater Health Risk Than Tobacco, Warns Leading Medical Expert

 

Air pollution has emerged as a greater health threat than tobacco, according to a leading doctor and public health expert. Dr. Anil Sharma, a senior pulmonologist and global health advisor, said that the long-term health impact of polluted air now surpasses the dangers posed by cigarette smoking, especially in urban and industrial regions.

“People often worry about smoking, but they ignore the invisible killer they breathe every day,” said Dr. Sharma during an international public health summit in Geneva. “Air pollution doesn’t just affect the lungs- it damages the heart, brain, and even unborn children.”

The warning comes amid growing evidence that tiny particles in polluted air, known as PM2.5, are responsible for a dramatic rise in chronic respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

The Global Toll of Air Pollution

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution causes approximately 7 million premature deaths every year- a number that has overtaken the annual global death toll caused by tobacco-related illnesses.

Fine particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone from vehicle emissions, industrial waste, construction dust, and burning of fossil fuels are identified as the main pollutants. These pollutants penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing long-term damage even at low exposure levels.

“Unlike tobacco, air pollution affects everyone- even those who have never smoked a cigarette in their life,” Dr. Sharma added.

Children and Elderly Most at Risk

Children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health conditions are especially vulnerable. Several studies have linked polluted air to asthma, premature births, reduced cognitive development in children, strokes, and early onset of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

In cities like Delhi, Beijing, and Cairo, the air quality index (AQI) regularly reaches hazardous levels. Long-term exposure in such environments is equivalent to smoking a pack of cigarettes per day, experts say.

Governments Urged to Act

Dr. Sharma called on world leaders and governments to take urgent action, including:

• Stricter air quality regulations

• Shifting to clean and renewable energy

• Better public transportation systems

• Urban green zones and tree plantation initiatives

He emphasized that awareness and individual efforts are not enough. “You can quit smoking, but you can’t stop breathing,” he warned.

What Individuals Can Do

While policy-level changes are essential, individuals can also take steps to protect themselves:

• Monitor daily air quality using apps and avoid outdoor activities on high-pollution days.

• Use certified air purifiers indoors.

• Wear masks rated for fine particle protection in polluted areas.

• Advocate for green policies in your local community.

The Bottom Line

As global urbanization and industrialization continue to rise, so does the danger of polluted air. Health experts like Dr. Sharma are sounding the alarm before the crisis worsens.

“We tackled tobacco with campaigns, taxes, and bans. It’s time we do the same for air pollution  before it’s too late,” he concluded.