India, Nov. 9 -- Air pollution has a significant negative impact on lung health. Breathing in polluted air can irritate and inflame your airways, impair lung function, and increase the risk of respiratory diseases, including asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), bronchitis, pneumonia and even lung cancer. Exposure to air pollution and fine particles can quickly trigger symptoms such as coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and wheezing, even in healthy individuals and can aggravate pre-existing lung diseases. Long-term exposure to air pollution significantly increases the risk of developing chronic lung diseases, including Asthma and COPD. It can lead to reduced lung growth in children and chronic decline in lung function in adults. Prolonged exposure also plays a role in the development of lung cancer. These pollutants harm by causing oxidative stress, inflammation, impaired cell repair, and immune dysfunction, which cumulatively impair breathing and lung function, often irreversibly. This increases the risk of developing respiratory diseases such as asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer. Children's lungs are more vulnerable to air pollution than adults because of their developing lungs, faster breathing rates, and exposure to more physical activity. Air pollution can interfere with normal lung growth both in the womb and after birth, leading to permanent reduction in lung capacity, increased risk of respiratory infections, and higher likelihood of developing bronchitis, asthma, heart disease, and even psychiatric disorders. Key protective measures include minimising exposure to polluted air, improving indoor air quality, supporting public clean air initiatives, and building resilience with healthy habits. Integrating environmental education and awareness campaigns into the school curriculum empowers children and families to both reduce exposure and recognise risk factors. Supporting community outreach programs, family counselling for smoking cessation and public engagement on environmental health also promote healthy community practices....