Air pollution not only leads to the development of respiratory diseases in seniors but also weakens their immune system.
- Many older people's immune systems are weakened by air pollution
- Particles from airborne pollutants were clogged inside the lymph nodes due to which the immune cells are unable to carry out crucial tasks that protect us against viruses





Immune System in Older Adults
Older adults’ weak immune systems have previously been associated with aging. Additionally, the COVID-19 epidemic brought home how vulnerable seniors are, with a death rate for those over 75 that is 80% higher than that of younger persons. Older folks are also disproportionately affected by the flu and other lung illnesses.Researchers examined 84 deceased donors’ tissue, ranging in age from 11 to 93. None of them smoked. “When we looked at people’s lymph nodes, we were struck by how many of the nodes in the lung appeared black in color, while those in the GI tract and other areas of the body were the typical beige color,” says Donna Farber, PhD, at Columbia University, who led the study.
Effect of Airborne Pollutants on Lymph Nodes
“The blackened lymph nodes were clogged with particles from airborne pollutants. These immune cells are simply choked with particulates and could not perform essential functions that help defend us against pathogens,” Farber said. “Pollution undoubtedly plays a role in creating more dangerous respiratory infections in elderly individuals and is another reason to continue the work in improving air quality.”Source-Medindia