Exercise Protects Against Chronic Illness Despite Air Pollution

A long-term UK study published in BMC Medicine found that physical activity significantly reduces the risk of several chronic diseases, even in areas with higher levels of air pollution. Researchers examined outcomes including mortality, cancer, cardiovascular events, type 2 diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Exercise lowered the risk of all these conditions, while air pollution increased the risk of most, except cancer. Importantly, the protective effects of physical activity did not weaken in polluted regions.

The findings suggest that staying active remains beneficial under the relatively low air pollution levels common in the UK and Denmark. However, other studies have shown conflicting results, with exercise in highly polluted settings sometimes providing no benefit—or even raising risks for conditions such as asthma. Since pollution levels during events like U.S. wildfire smoke are far higher, further research is needed. Individual health differences also influence vulnerability to pollution.

08-09-2025