Bad Air Quality & Outdoor Exercise: Doctor Warns of Heart & Lung Risks

• Exercising outdoors in poor air quality (high AQI) can severely harm heart and lung health, despite physical activity benefits.
• Deeper breathing during exercise in polluted air increases inhalation of dangerous particulate matter, irritating airways and stressing organs.
• Vulnerable groups like children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with existing conditions face higher risks of flare-ups.
• Doctors recommend exercising indoors when AQI is poor and choosing less strenuous activities if AQI is moderate.
• Precautions include monitoring AQI, staying hydrated, wearing masks, and stopping exercise if symptoms like chest tightness occur.

Why It Matters: Exercise wisely in polluted cities; prioritize indoor workouts and precautions to protect heart and lungs.