Air pollution is a global concern, especially in densely populated areas. It is an inaudible but impactful trigger for various health issues, including autoimmune diseases and disorders. Breathing fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and other environmental toxins is a known cause of chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and immune dysregulation. Its impact on respiratory and cardiovascular health is well documented. Some studies have shown that pollution plays a major role in the development of autoimmune diseases. Here, the immune system attacks the body tissues and it can be triggered by environmental pollutants including fine particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide and heavy metals. Here are 5 autoimmune diseases that pollution may contribute to:
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
According to Dr. Aravind Badiger, Technical Director, BDR Pharmaceuticals “Pollutants induce inflammatory reactions, exacerbating joint damage and promoting disease progression. Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the joints causing pain and swelling. Some studies have linked air pollution and traffic related pollutants to an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis. These types of pollution trigger systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, causing overactice immune response.”
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Toxicants inhaled can impact the blood-brain barrier, putting individuals at risk for neuroinflammation. Multiple Sclerosis is a neurological disorder where the immune system attacks the myelin (protective covering of nerve fibers). Nitrogen dioxide in particular has been associated with the risk of multiple sclerosis. These pollutants can lead to chronic inflammation in the nervous system and can accelerate the disease progress.
Lupus (SLE)
According to Dr. Pooja Belani Consultant Rheumatologist Bhailal Amin General Hospital, “Environmental toxicants have been linked to flares of disease and worsened symptoms (skin rash, fatigue, organ inflammation). Lupus is an autoimmune disease that may affect the organs, including skin, kidneys and heart. Researches have indicated that pollutant like benzene and sulfur dioxide may contribute to the increasing risk of lupus. These pollutants may cause genetic mutation and epigenetic changes as well that can deregulate the immune system. Additionally, Urban pollution can exacerbate lupus symptoms leading to fatigue and organ damage.”
Type 1 Diabetes
Air pollution may play a role in the pancreastic beta-cell destruction, triggering an immune attack. Type 1 diabetes in an autoimmune disease where the immune system destroys insulin producing cells. High level of air pollution and urban pollutants can trigger immune dysfunction, leading to the risk of type 1 diabetes.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Urban emissions can alter the gut microbiota and promote the individual to be susceptible to chronic intestinal inflammation. From a pharmaceutical perspective, targeted therapies to suppress inflammation and disrupt immune dysregulation are of interest. Biologics, immunomodulators, and precision medicine are being developed for reversing environmental triggers. However, prevention is significant—air purification systems, reducing exposure to pollutants, and advocacy for decreased pollution in urban areas to protect vulnerable populations.
Inflammatory bowel disease is caused by chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. Air pollution can disrupt gut microbiota, weaken intestines, and cause inflammation, all of which can contribute to the development of Inflammatory bowel disease.
The interaction between autoimmunity and pollution highlights the importance of an integrated healthcare approach, where pharmaceutical innovation meets public health action.
