Journal of Social Research
Vol. 5 No. 8 (2026): Journal of Social Research

The Synergistic Effects of Lifestyle Factors and Air Pollution on Pancreatic Dysfunction and Metabolic Disorders: A Literature Review

Aziza Devisafitri (Universitas Diponegoro)



Article Info

Publish Date
13 Jul 2026

Abstract

Pancreatic dysfunction, particularly involving ?-cell failure, is a central factor in the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders. Although intrinsic mechanisms of pancreatic damage have been extensively documented, the combined effects of behavioral and environmental stressors remain an important area of investigation. This literature review synthesized epidemiological and experimental evidence regarding the synergistic effects of lifestyle-related factors and ambient air pollution on pancreatic health. Unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, including obesity, high-fat dietary patterns, physical inactivity, cigarette smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption, contribute to metabolic impairment through glucolipotoxicity, redox imbalance, and systemic inflammation. These factors promote gut dysbiosis and disrupt key insulin signaling pathways. Concurrently, exposure to ambient air pollutants, particularly fine particulate matter (PM?.?), may exacerbate these pathological processes. Particulate matter exposure induces oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, thereby activating the unfolded protein response (UPR) and NLRP3 inflammasome pathways. The convergence of adverse lifestyle behaviors and chronic air pollution exposure produces synergistic effects that accelerate ?-cell apoptosis and disrupt metabolic homeostasis. Integrated preventive strategies addressing both behavioral modifications and environmental interventions are essential to reduce the increasing burden of type 2 diabetes mellitus in modern industrialized societies.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

ijsr

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Computer Science & IT Economics, Econometrics & Finance Education Social Sciences

Description

The Journal of Social Research is a double blind peer-reviewed academic journal and open access to social and scientific fields. The journal is published monthly by International Journal Labs. The Journal of Social Research provides a means for sustained discussion of relevant issues that fall ...