Air Pollution in Delhi Affects Not Just Lungs but Joints Too, Experts Warn

Delhi’s worsening air quality is no longer just a threat to the lungs—it is now linked to a rising number of joint problems and autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Experts from the Indian Rheumatology Association (IRA) warn that micro pollutants like PM 2.5, nitrogen oxide, and ozone can increase inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, damaging joints and triggering RA even in people with no family history of the disease.

How Pollution Affects Joints

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the body’s tissues, particularly the joints. Long-term exposure to air pollution can:

• Increase joint inflammation and pain

• Trigger oxidative stress, overactivating the immune system

• Worsen symptoms in existing patients
  Experts note that young adults and the working population are increasingly affected, making RA not only a health concern but a public health crisis.

Expert Insights

Rheumatologists at the IRACON 2025 conference in New Delhi, including Dr. Uma Kumar (AIIMS), Dr. Bimalesh Dhar Pandey (Fortis), Dr. Neeraj Jain (Sir Ganga Ram), Dr. Pulin Gupta (RML Hospital), and Dr. Rohini Handa (Apollo Hospital), highlighted that pollution, lack of greenery, and constant traffic are major contributors to the rising cases.

Prevention Tips

• Wear masks in polluted areas

• Use air purifiers at home and ensure proper ventilation

• Quit smoking and avoid tobacco

• Boost immunity with a healthy diet and regular exercise

• Seek medical advice promptly for joint pain or swelling

• Advocate for green spaces and community efforts to reduce pollution

Experts emphasize that addressing pollution is crucial not just for lung health but to prevent joint damage and autoimmune diseases, making it a societal concern as much as an individual one.