The Role of Air Pollution in Metabolic Syndrome: Mechanisms, Epidemiology, and Policy Implications

Abstract

Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of conditions, including insulin resistance, obesity, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, and together pose a major risk of developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Recent research throws light on air pollution as one of the most important environmental factors contributing to the increase in MetS prevalence. MetS is pathophysiologically linked to key pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and ozone (O₃), via various pathways, including oxidative stress, systemic inflam- mation, endothelial dysfunction, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation, and others. Disruption of metabolic dysregulation via these pathways leads to abnormal lipid and glucose metabolism tolerance and hormonal regulation.

Epidemiological studies confirm a very high correlation between total exposure to air pollutants and MetS prevalence, especially among urban and disadvantaged populations. Co-exposure to air and noise pollution can potentiate MetS risk, and this adds evidence to the need for environmental health strategies that integrate air, food, and noise pollution exposures. In fact, pollution exposure is also un- equally distributed to vulnerable groups, such as children, poor, and minority communities, suggesting that quick and comprehensive public health action is urgently required. Strict air quality standards, innovative urban planning, and targeted policy measures are necessary to mitigate the health burden of air pollu- tion. Individual vulnerability may be further reduced with public health campaigns regarding protective behaviors and dietary strategies. To inform future interven- tions, it is critical to bridge gaps in our understanding of the complex interactions between air pollution and metabolic health.