Air pollution is known to negatively affect lung and heart health, but recent research suggests it may also harm metabolic function.
A study by the University of Zurich and Case Western Reserve University found that prolonged exposure to polluted air can damage blood sugar control, increasing the risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
The researchers focused on PM2.5 particles, which are tiny enough to be breathed deep into the lungs and come from sources like car exhaust, smoke, and factory pollution.
The scientists conducted an experiment where mice were exposed to either clean, filtered air or air filled with PM2.5 for six hours a day, five days a week, over 24 weeks.
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Author's summary: Air pollution may increase the risk of obesity and diabetes.