Men inhale more toxic air than women: Anyway, it is said that women have more ability to tolerate diseases, but this research has proved this to some extent. Researchers at Netaji Subhash University of Technology, Delhi, have concluded on the basis of five years of data that the effect of poisonous air is not the same on men and women. Due to physical structure and lifestyle, more toxic air (polluted particles) is entering the lungs of men than women. Therefore, this research is going to caution men. Then the question arises that what trick should men adopt to save themselves from this merciless wind.
Men are filled with more pollution
- The findings revealed a clear gender difference. Research says that PM 2.5 matter is very fine and dangerous particles and can reach deep inside the lungs.
- If men remained sitting then the RDD (respiratory deposition dose) was about 1.4 times higher than that of women. RDD means the ability to fill the lungs with oxygen per second.
- Similarly, if a man is walking then RDD was found to be about 1.2 times more than that of women.
- If a man is sitting then RDD is found to be 1.34 times more than that of women.
Why is there a difference based on gender?
Gaurav Saini, a co-author of the study and associated with the Department of Civil Engineering at NSUT, said that men are generally more exposed to outdoor air pollution, as they are likely to work outside or spend more time outside. She told TOI that while men are more exposed to outdoor pollution, women are often exposed to indoor pollution. The amount of breathing and frequency of breathing also vary according to gender and physical activity. Amarendra Singh, another author of the study, said that women generally have a higher breathing rate, which can increase the intake of pollutants. However, men absorb greater amounts of pollution overall due to larger lung capacity and time spent outdoors.
Why are men more at risk?
- Lung Capacity: Generally, men’s lungs are larger in size, due to which they inhale more air at one time. In case of pollution, they also inhale more polluted particles.
- Outdoor Activity: Men spend more time outside the home for work or exercise than women.
- Physical Stress: While doing heavy work, the speed of breathing increases, due to which toxic particles (PM 2.5) reach the deep parts of the lungs.
Adopt these 5 ways to escape today itself
Avoid going out during peak hoursPollution levels are highest between 7 to 10 in the morning and during evening traffic. During this period, avoid outdoor workout or walking.
Use of N95 mask: Ordinary cloth mask cannot stop smoke and fine particles. Wear a good quality N95 mask while leaving the house.
Include vitamins in the diet-C: Increase the intake of fruits like lemon, orange and amla. They contain Vitamin C which protects the lung tissues from damage caused by pollution.
Pranayama and breathing exercises: Anulom-Vilom and Bhastrika Pranayam increase lung function and help in removing accumulated toxins.
Keep air purifying plants inside the house: Plants like snake plant, aloe vera or money plant help in purifying the indoor air.
Expert’s warning: If you are facing the problem of persistent cough, heaviness in the chest or shortness of breath, do not consider it as normal pollution. Consult a pulmonologist immediately.
