Lucknow’s toxic air can makeyou diabetic, warn experts | Lucknow News

Lucknow: Long-term exposure to the poor air quality of the state capital can increase the risk of diabetes. Experts from the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI) on Thursday warned residents could face up to a 72% higher chance of developing insulin resistance, during a discussion held on eve of World Diabetes Day.Experts referred to a research paper titled “Long-term Exposure to Air Pollution and Risk of Insulin Resistance: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis”, which establishes a strong link between fine air pollutants and reduced insulin effectiveness in the body. According to the study, PM2.5, extremely fine particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, increases the body’s HOMA-IR (a measure of insulin resistance) by 0.40% for every 1 micrograms per cubic metre rise. Secretary of the society, Dr Ajoy Tewari, said since Lucknow’s air quality often ranges between 180 and 220 micrograms per cubic metre, residents may experience up to a 72–90% increase in insulin resistance if calculated using formula proposed. “These numbers are worrying,” said chairman of RSSDI, Prof Narsingh Verma. “Pollution is no longer just an environmental issue, it is quietly damaging metabolic health and increasing the risk of diabetes, especially among children, the elderly, and people already at risk,” he said. Experts explained that long-term exposure to PM2.5 and PM10 does more than harm the lungs. These particles can trigger inflammation, oxidative stress, and hormonal imbalances, all of which reduce the body’s ability to use insulin effectively. “We often talk about pollution affecting breathing, but we rarely discuss its impact on blood sugar,” said Dr Tiwari. “Air is becoming a metabolic threat. When particulate matter rises, insulin becomes less effective and that puts lakhs of people at higher diabetes risk.” Meanwhile, to raise public awareness, the RSSDI (UP Chapter) organised a large Diabetes Awareness Programme near Rumi Gate. Dr AK Sachan said, “This year, one of our major messages is the link between polluted air and rising diabetes, something people must know.” “Diabetes is preventable and manageable with timely screening and lifestyle changes,” said head of endocrinology at Max Hospital, Dr Sushil Gupta. Dr Ajay Shukla added that uncontrolled diabetes can damage almost every organ, making awareness and preventive care essential.