Cold and Pollution in Delhi-NCR Spur a 40% Surge in Stroke Cases

Cold and Pollution in Delhi-NCR Spur

VoM News Desk | December 27, 2023 | 11:38 PM IST | Delhi, Health, India | Follow on Google News

Cold and Pollution in Delhi-NCR Spur a 40% Surge in Stroke Cases

Cold and Pollution in Delhi-NCR Spur a 40% Surge in Stroke Cases

The national capital region, Delhi-NCR, is currently grappling with a twin onslaught of biting cold and heightened pollution levels, leading to a significant uptick in stroke cases, registering a staggering 40% increase. Experts warn that the combined impact of plummeting temperatures and escalating pollution is posing a dual risk, elevating the probability of brain strokes.

Rise in Stroke Incidences
Eminent neurologists, including Dr. Praveen Gupta from Fortis Memorial Research Institute and Dr. Prof Vinay Goyal of Medanta, Gurugram, have observed a marked surge in stroke-related hospital admissions. Compared to the warmer months of October and September, there has been almost a twofold rise in the number of stroke patients seeking medical attention, according to Dr. Gupta.

Deteriorating Air Quality
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has reported a ‘very poor’ air quality status in the region, with an overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of 381, signifying alarming conditions. The Meteorological Department’s forecast predicts a minimum temperature ranging from 7 to 10 degrees Celsius in Delhi, with dense fog exacerbating the situation. This weather prognosis intensifies the stroke risk due to the combined effects of cold weather and pollution.

The Cold-Pollution Stroke Connection
Medical experts, including Dr. Sumit Singh from Artemis Hospitals, elucidate that the wintertime poses a higher risk for strokes due to fluctuating blood pressure. Moreover, pollution contributes to oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, weakening blood vessels. This convergence of factors significantly elevates the susceptibility to brain strokes.

Scientific research underscores a seasonal variation in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and stroke occurrences, with heightened rates during the winter season. Factors such as air pollution, lower temperatures, and decreased physical activity amplify these risks. Cold temperatures can spike catecholamine production and activate the sympathetic nervous system, elevating blood pressure and straining compromised coronary circulation, potentially leading to myocardial ischemia.

Preventive Measures
In light of these risks, doctors advocate the use of indoor air purifiers, wearing masks in polluted areas, managing diet and hypertension, and continuing physical activities during the warmer parts of the day. Additionally, they recommend refraining from morning walks, avoiding smoking, reducing nut consumption, and undergoing regular health check-ups under a physician’s guidance.

VoM News Desk

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