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Air pollution is not only bad for your lungs, it may increase your chances of having diabetes.

According to a new study by Children's Hospital in Boston, people who live in areas with the highest levels of pollution have a 20% greater chance of getting Type-2 (or adult-onset) diabetes.

"After adjusting for lifestyle factors like weight and education, air pollution remained associated with this type of diabetes," says study co-author Dr. Allison Goldfine of Harvard's Joslin Diabetes Center. Air pollution may cause low-grade inflammation, "and inflammation can make you more susceptible to the disease," Dr. Goldfine says.

While more studies are under way, consider this healthy living two-fer: "Walk and ride your bike as much as possible," Dr. Goldfine urges. "You'll reduce pollution and get the exercise you need to prevent diabetes."