Recently, Barun Aggarwal, the founder of BreatheEasy, an air quality company, appeared on Raj Shamani’s podcast, where he claimed that Indians have smaller lungs compared to Europeans. He stated, “If you want to win medals in the Olympics, fix air pollution, and our lungs will get better. We will be able to perform better in sports.” Aggarwal emphasized that athletes in India are hindered by severe air pollution, saying, “We cannot perform at the same level as Europeans because air pollution in our country is incredibly high. Our lungs are weaker, which is why they are shrinking and smaller. Our lungs are 10-15% smaller and weaker than those of Western individuals.”
Dr. K Thiruppathi, a senior consultant in pulmonology at SIMS Hospital in Chennai, further explained the implications of long-term air pollution exposure on lung development, especially in children and young adults. He noted that fine particles in polluted air can infiltrate the air sacs, leading to inflammation that retards proper lung growth and diminishes overall lung capacity. As a result, many individuals may not achieve their full lung size, impacting their breathing and stamina later in life.
Dr. Thiruppathi addressed whether Indian lungs are indeed 10 to 15% smaller than their Western counterparts. He confirmed that multiple studies support this claim, attributing the differences largely to pollution, poor air quality, genetics, and nutrition. He noted that while structural differences cannot be reversed after growth, maintaining a clean environment and balanced diet can enhance lung function. Moreover, engaging in good exercise habits can improve lung efficiency even if they are slightly smaller.
For athletes, reduced lung capacity can significantly affect performance. Dr. Thiruppathi explained that lessened lung capacity restricts the amount of oxygen the body can intake and deliver to muscles, impacting endurance and recovery, particularly in professional athletes. Those living active lifestyles may also notice fatigue, diminished stamina, and breathlessness during physical exertion due to this issue.
Given the current levels of air pollution, individuals can take several practical steps to safeguard their respiratory health. It is advisable to limit outdoor activities when air quality is poor and to keep windows closed while stuck in traffic. Engaging in breathing exercises, such as pranayama, can strengthen lungs, while consuming antioxidant-rich foods and staying hydrated is important for overall health. Reducing smoking and keeping regular lung check-ups can also contribute to better lung health.
This article is based on insights from public domain sources and expert opinions. Always consult your health practitioner before making changes to your health routine.
Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/our-lungs-are-10-15-smaller-compared-to-the-west-10357142/
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Publish Date: 2025-11-23 22:27:00
