Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR Posing Severe Health Risks, Particularly to Fetus

Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR Posing Severe Health Risks, Particularly to Fetus

VoM News Desk | November 5, 2023 | 10:12 AM IST | Climate & Environment, Delhi | Follow on Google News

Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR Posing Severe Health Risks, Particularly to Fetus

Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR Posing Severe Health Risks, Particularly to Fetus

Air quality in Delhi-NCR remains at a severe level, posing a significant health risk, including potential harm to fetuses. Experts emphasize that air pollution affects individuals of all age groups, and air purifiers are not a sufficient solution to the problem.

Unborn Child’s Vulnerability

Senior lung specialist Dr. Arvind Kumar at Medanta Hospital points out that air pollution can harm unborn children. When expectant mothers breathe in polluted air, toxins enter their lungs, circulate through their blood, and reach the fetus through the placenta. This exposure can lead to various adverse effects on the developing fetus.

Effect on Children After Birth

Air pollution continues to impact children’s health after birth. Dr. Kumar highlights that the air quality index (AQI) in Delhi is around 450-500, equivalent to smoking 25-30 cigarettes in terms of health damage. Such severe air quality can result in various respiratory issues for children.

Air Purifiers Not a Comprehensive Solution

While air purifiers are commonly used to improve indoor air quality, Dr. Kumar underscores that they are not a complete solution to combat the consequences of outdoor air pollution. Air purifiers may reduce indoor pollutants to some extent, but they cannot bring the AQI down to safe levels, especially when it is significantly high outside. Regular filter changes are essential for maintaining their effectiveness.

Obesity and Asthma Linked to Air Pollution

Dr. Kumar also notes that air pollution can contribute to obesity and asthma in children. Studies have indicated that obesity and exposure to air pollution increase the likelihood of developing asthma.

Wide-Ranging Health Effects

The adverse impacts of air pollution are not limited to a specific organ or health condition. Dr. Kumar highlights that air pollution can lead to chronic diseases, disabilities, and even breast cancer. Prolonged exposure to high levels of air pollution has been associated with premature deaths and significantly reduced life expectancy.

Urgent Health Emergency

The persistently severe air quality in Delhi and surrounding areas constitutes a massive health emergency. Experts call for comprehensive measures to address the root causes of air pollution and protect the health and well-being of the population.

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