UM Surabaya Lecturer Explains the Impact of Air Pollution on the Elderly

• 14 Sep
• 2023

Ilustrasi Polusi Udara (Foto: Getty Images/sndrk)

UM Surabaya Lecturer Explains the Impact of Air Pollution on the Elderly

• Article
• By Uswah Sahal
• Health
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Vella Rohmayani Lecturer in Medical Laboratory Technology (TLM) Applied Undergraduate Program at Muhammadiyah University of Surabaya (UM Surabaya) said that clean air is one of the basic needs for humans. However, over time the environment continues to experience degradation due to natural exploitation which leads to environmental pollution.

It is known that the level of public health is influenced by several factors, namely environmental factors, behavioral factors, service factors and genetic or hereditary factors, so that poor environmental conditions will have an impact on reducing human health conditions.

“Air pollution is one of the factors that can trigger the risk of public health problems, especially in the elderly group. "The elderly are a vulnerable group when exposed to air pollution, because the elderly are much more susceptible to disease and can be at risk of experiencing fatal conditions," said Vella Thursday (14/9/23)

Vella emphasized that the health conditions of the elderly need to receive better attention and protection compared to young or productive age groups.

Based on research results, it is stated that air pollution not only has a bad impact on lung health, but also on the health of other body organs, so that if the elderly are exposed to air pollution, they will not only suffer from respiratory system problems, but also trigger other health problems such as failure. kidney disease, dementia, and other serious health risks.

"Apart from that, indirect exposure to air pollution can also cause a decrease in the body's resistance and can cause stressful conditions," he added.

Furthermore, Vella said that the impact of air pollution from exposure to carbon monoxide can trigger blood pressure disorders which are characterized by an increase in systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure.

Carbon monoxide apparently has the ability to remember Hb 245 times stronger, when compared to oxygen. Increased carbon monoxide levels in the body can cause headaches, respiratory problems, and even depression.

"If the elderly group is exposed to air pollution for a long period of time, it will certainly result in the elderly being attacked by various diseases that cause serious and fatal health problems," concluded Vella.