apollo

Diabetes Management

Can High Ozone Levels Cause Significant Lung Damage in Diabetics?

4 min read

Affected people must use a good quality mask.
Research has revealed that air pollution is responsible for 9% of deaths globally, while the range can vary from 2% to 15% in different countries. Air pollution is the combination of particulate matter present outdoor and indoor, along with ozone. Ozone is a gas that is naturally present in the stratosphere (second layer of the atmosphere), protecting the earth from the harmful rays of the sun.
However, when sunlight reacts with the nitrogen oxides and other volatile organic compounds (released by burning of fuels from motor vehicles, industrial facilities, electric utilities, and chemical solvents), ozone is produced at the ground level too. Various studies have concluded that exposure to high levels of ozone can increase the risk of morbidity and mortality. However, recent studies have shown that diabetics exposed to excessive ozone levels in polluted air could be at higher risk of suffering from permanent lung damage.

How is ozone gas harmful to the lungs?

Ozone and smog are often used interchangeably as smog is made up of ozone and other particulate matter, and both are known to exacerbate upper respiratory illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and rhinitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane inside the nose). Previous studies conducted on pre-diabetic rodents to determine the harmful effects of ozone concluded that ozone exposure can negatively affect the heart rate, blood pressure, and can result in adipose tissue (fat tissue) inflammation. Various experiments conducted on rodents and humans concluded that continuous exposure to ozone can result in:
  • Inflammation of the space between the lungs and its parenchyma (outer covering)
  • Increased production of inflammatory mediators in the lungs
  • Increased risk of asthma 
  • Change in the architecture of lungs
  • Scarring of the lungs resulting in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Recent studies have concluded that high concentrations of ozone can cause lung restriction and stiffness, ultimately leading to severe complications.

How do high ozone levels affect the lungs of people with diabetes?

In a study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspective on 30th November 2020, scientists determined the effects of ozone gas on pre-diabetic and diabetic mice. In this study, researchers examined 24 mice and divided them into three categories: healthy, those with mild insulin resistance and the ones with extreme insulin resistance. The mice in different categories were further divided into experimental group and control group. The control group was exposed to filtered air, while the experimental group was exposed to ozone gas for 13 days, four hours each day.
The results of the study showed that:
  • There is a direct relationship between insulin resistance levels and the severity of inflammation and scarring in the lungs.
  • Diabetes prone subjects were more susceptible to inflammation and showed excessive changes in the lung tissues after getting exposed to ozone repeatedly.
  • Exposure to ozone can exacerbate scarring of lungs (pulmonary fibrosis) in diabetics.

What can be done to prevent lung damage?

While more research needs to be done to affirm similar patterns in humans, there are some simple easy things that can be done to make sure that people with blood sugar challenges stay protected from the harmful effects of air pollution.
  • People diagnosed with diabetes must keep their blood sugar levels under control. Those with a family history of diabetes must get their blood sugar levels checked every 3 months.
  • Diabetics and pre-diabetics must avoid high-fat, calorie-rich food as it can lead to obesity and insulin resistance in the body. They must take up some form of exercise to keep themselves active and healthy.
  • People with diabetes living in extremely polluted cities must avoid stepping out of their homes early in the morning as the pollution levels are at a peak during those hours. They must keep their windows closed during the mornings and evenings.
  • Before stepping out, affected people must use a good quality mask preferably N95, N99 or N100 mask as they can filter out the finest pollution particles.
  • People with diabetes or pre-diabetes can install air purifiers at their homes to filter out the pollutants from the indoor air.

Conclusion

Various studies have concluded that exposure to ozone gas can increase the risk of developing early pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease in people with diabetes and pre-diabetes. With proper precautions and careful planning, it is possible for people with impaired blood sugar levels to prevent respiratory complications and continue leading healthy lives.
Consult an endocrinologist or a diabetologist for any queries related to diabetes.
 
You can also manage your diabetes like a pro with Apollo 24|7's 12-week empower programme.

References+9

Diabetes Management

Leave Comment

Name

Email Id

Comment

Recommended for you

Article Entity

Diabetes Management

Top 4 Tests For Diabetes Diagnosis

The top four tests for diabetes diagnosis include the Fasting Blood Sugar Test (FBS), which checks for elevated blood sugar levels after an overnight fast, with a reading of 126 mg/dL or higher on two occasions indicating diabetes. The Hemoglobin A1c Test provides an average blood sugar level over time, with an A1c level of 6.5% or higher suggesting diabetes. The Oral Glucose Tolerance Test measures how your body processes glucose after fasting and a glucose challenge, and finally, the Random Blood Sugar Test measures blood sugar levels at any time, with a reading of 200 mg/dL or higher signaling diabetes.

Article Entity

Diabetes Management

Can People with Diabetes Run a Marathon?

Individuals with diabetes can indeed run marathons, but it requires careful planning and diligent management—diabetes, whether Type 1 or Type 2, can be managed effectively during marathon training and races. Monitoring blood sugar levels, adjusting medication, and maintaining proper nutrition and hydration are crucial. Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals who specialise in diabetes care is vital for a safe and successful marathon journey. Diabetes should not deter anyone from pursuing their marathon dreams with the right strategies and determination.

Article Entity

Diabetes Management

Potatoes & Diabetes: Ways To Consume Potatoes Without Spiking Blood Sugar

Potatoes are a popular and versatile food rich in vitamins and minerals. However, the glycemic index (GI) of potatoes varies depending on the cooking method. Fried potatoes have a high GI score of 95, while boiled potatoes have a low GI score of 50. Besides, sweet potatoes, which have a GI score of 61, are also a safe alternative to consume if you are diagnosed with diabetes.

Subscribe

Sign up for our free Health Library Daily Newsletter

Get doctor-approved health tips, news, and more.

Email

Visual Stories

story-img

8 Fruits That are Incredibly Healthy for Diabetes

Tap to continue exploring

  • Share this article

  • 0

  • 1 like

Recommended for you

Article Entity

Diabetes Management

Top 4 Tests For Diabetes Diagnosis

The top four tests for diabetes diagnosis include the Fasting Blood Sugar Test (FBS), which checks for elevated blood sugar levels after an overnight fast, with a reading of 126 mg/dL or higher on two occasions indicating diabetes. The Hemoglobin A1c Test provides an average blood sugar level over time, with an A1c level of 6.5% or higher suggesting diabetes. The Oral Glucose Tolerance Test measures how your body processes glucose after fasting and a glucose challenge, and finally, the Random Blood Sugar Test measures blood sugar levels at any time, with a reading of 200 mg/dL or higher signaling diabetes.

Article Entity

Diabetes Management

Can People with Diabetes Run a Marathon?

Individuals with diabetes can indeed run marathons, but it requires careful planning and diligent management—diabetes, whether Type 1 or Type 2, can be managed effectively during marathon training and races. Monitoring blood sugar levels, adjusting medication, and maintaining proper nutrition and hydration are crucial. Seeking guidance from healthcare professionals who specialise in diabetes care is vital for a safe and successful marathon journey. Diabetes should not deter anyone from pursuing their marathon dreams with the right strategies and determination.

Article Entity

Diabetes Management

Potatoes & Diabetes: Ways To Consume Potatoes Without Spiking Blood Sugar

Potatoes are a popular and versatile food rich in vitamins and minerals. However, the glycemic index (GI) of potatoes varies depending on the cooking method. Fried potatoes have a high GI score of 95, while boiled potatoes have a low GI score of 50. Besides, sweet potatoes, which have a GI score of 61, are also a safe alternative to consume if you are diagnosed with diabetes.