15/11/2025
isn’t just a respiratory — it’s increasingly recognized as a metabolic disruptor that worsens or even contributes to . For people living in cities like , where air quality often plunges into the “hazardous” range, this is a serious yet under-discussed concern.
When we air, especially fine particulate matter ( .5), these microscopic particles enter the bloodstream through the lungs. Once inside, they trigger oxidative and — two processes that impair insulin signaling and increase insulin resistance. Over time, this leads to higher blood glucose levels and makes diabetes harder to .
Several studies have shown that people exposed to chronic air pollution have a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. For those already diagnosed, poor air quality is linked to higher HbA1c values, greater glucose variability, and an increased risk of cardiovascular complications.
The effect isn’t limited to the lungs — pollution influences the endocrine and vascular systems, altering how the body manages glucose and lipids. Even short-term exposure can cause spikes in blood sugar and blood pressure, particularly in the elderly and those with existing complications.
What You Can Do
Stay when AQI is “very poor” or “hazardous.”
Use and air where possible.
indoors instead of outdoor walks on smoggy days.
well and maintain a balanced anti-inflammatory diet.
your sugars more closely during pollution peaks.
air isn’t a luxury — it’s a form of preventive . Managing diabetes effectively means protecting not only your diet and lifestyle, but also the air you breathe.
