The invisible dangers of air pollution on the endocrine system
Air pollution is a global problem that affects our health in many ways. Air pollutants not only affect our lungs as we breathe, but can also disrupt the delicate balance of our hormones. This is associated with a wide range of health problems.
The endocrine system comprises all the hormones in our body and uses them to control everything that goes on inside it. Hormones determine our development, our emotional state and therefore our reactions to external influences, as well as the female cycle, digestion, stress levels and our blood pressure. Chemicals, known as endocrine disruptors, disrupt the hormone system. Whether fertility problems, susceptibility to diseases such as cancer or a weakened immune system: endocrine disruptors upset the delicate hormonal balance.
Endocrine disruptors & their effect on the body
In addition to endogenous hormones, there are environmental hormones that are not hormones in the true sense of the word. Rather, they are molecules that behave like hormones. The problem is that these disruptive factors occur everywhere, in cleaning products, food, chemicals, pesticides, medicines, cosmetics, etc. They evaporate from plastic, furniture or decorative items and accumulate in the air, soil or water. As the molecules are very small, they enter the bodies of animals and humans via the respiratory system, but also through the skin. There they can interfere with the hormone system.
Environmental hormones can act in different ways. Some imitate the body's own hormones. If the organism detects these imitators, the body's own production of the hormone in the endocrine glands is reduced. Others block docking sites in the cells or occupy transport molecules, thereby switching off the body's own hormones.
Other environmental hormones attack enzymes that are needed to produce hormones. This can also slow down the breakdown of hormones, which increases the concentration of hormones, such as oestrogen, and in this case can lead to feminization. Even tiny amounts of an environmental hormone are enough to disrupt the hormone system.
The hormone-like effect of substances is often only discovered through interference - i.e. when groups of substances have already had an effect on the hormone system. As a rule, the relevant substances, such as the plasticizers in plastic bisphenol A or phthalates, are banned, restricted for certain areas of use or limit values are set.
Pollutants & their effects on the endocrine system
Pollutants such as sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and lead, which are released into the air through the combustion of fossil fuels and vehicle emissions, can also act as endocrine disruptors in addition to their direct effects on our respiratory tract. One of the most influential endocrine disruptors is bisphenol A (BPA), which is used in the hardening of plastic. According to some studies, BPA is similar to oestrogen, both visually and in its effect. As a result, it can particularly confuse the body and influence hormones. BPA is suspected of causing fertility problems, breast cancer and other diseases such as thyroid disorders and diabetes.
These substances can disrupt hormone production, affect our bodily functions and lead to illness.
Can environmental pollution affect hormones?
Yes, for example in the form of air pollution. If the ambient air is heavily enriched with pollutants such as endocrine disruptors, these enter the lungs through the respiratory system and from there to other organs via the bloodstream. Women and men are equally affected. If various hormones are repeatedly released by the air pollutants, this puts the body under constant stress. A persistent flood of hormones can ultimately lead to inflammation, for example of the liver or pancreas.
The risks of particulates & nanoparticles
particulatesa complex mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets that originate from combustion processes or construction sites, among other things, can have far-reaching effects on health. The dust can not only trigger inflammatory reactions throughout the body, but can also cause hormonal disorders. Even the smoke from forest fires, which contains other pollutants as well as particulates , can affect people who live far away.
However, it is not only the dust that is hazardous to health, but primarily the particles attached to it. Allergens or chemical particles bind to it and can cause reactions such as allergies or hormonal changes in the body.
Diagnosis & treatment of air pollution-related diseases
The diagnosis of diseases caused by air pollution is a complex process. It is based on medical history, environmental exposure, symptoms and the results of lung function tests. It is often difficult to establish a clear link between exposure to a particular pollutant and the development of symptoms or disease. It is essential that you speak to a specialist who can give you sound advice based on appropriate tests.
The role of the air-Q air analyzer in the prevention of air pollution-related diseases
The air-Q air analyzer comes into play when it comes to prevention. The modern air measuring device is able to detect and quantify a variety of pollutants in the air. Among other things, you can use the air-Q to measure pollutants such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or particulates.
Proactive steps to improve air quality with the air-Q air analyzer
By continuously monitoring indoor air quality, the air-Q air analyzer helps you to reduce exposure to pollutants. Data-based information tells you when you should take measures to improve air quality, such as optimizing ventilation, reducing emissions indoors or using air purifiers. If the air measuring device's sensitive sensors detect that the recommended limit values have been exceeded, the air-Q warns you via an LED strip and optionally via push notification. This allows you to react to changes in air quality as and when they occur and remain capable of taking action.
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Conclusion: Knowledge is power - understand air quality & act accordingly
Ultimately, the best defense against the health effects of air pollution is comprehensive knowledge. With air monitors like the air-Q, you can better understand what's in the air you breathe and take proactive steps to improve your health and well-being.
