Delhi Air Pollution: Mask Up and Stay Vigilant as Toxins Fill the Air | Delhi News

NEW DELHI: Doctors have expressed concern about the potential health risks posed by rising air pollution levels in the city, especially to the vulnerable sections. They have advised residents to look out for signs of respiratory distress and seek medical attention, if required, and avoid crowded places to reduce the risk of viral infections.
Prof (Dr) G C Khilnani, chairman, PSRI Institute of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, and member of the WHO Technical Advisory Group on Global Air Pollution and Health, highlighted the recurring problem of pollution in Delhi-NCR during winter months, which often leads to various health issues.He said besides common symptoms, there is a higher incidence of serious conditions such as pneumonia, asthma, bronchitis and heart attacks, as well as increased mortality attributable to air pollution.
Dr Khilnani also cited a Chicago study revealing the significant reduction in life expectancy for Indians by 5.3 years, particularly Delhiites (11.3 years), due to pollution. “During Covid, we saw higher mortality in areas where there were higher levels of air pollution (Germany, Italy and the US),” he added.
According to Dr Suranjit Chatterjee, senior consultant, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, elderly people, children, pregnant women and those with pre-existing health conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cardiovascular disease, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of pollution. Their respiratory systems are either underdeveloped or compromised, making them more susceptible to infections or exacerbations of chronic conditions.
Dr Randeep Guleria, chairman, Medanta, Gurgaon, said children in highly polluted cities like Delhi have been found to have poorer lung capacity compared to those in less polluted regions, making them a high-risk group for long-term health effects. He advised regularly checking the AQI and avoiding outdoor activities when levels are high.
“Air pollution can cause wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath, even in people who aren’t vulnerable or who don’t have lung disease. So, we must be very careful,” said Dr Neetu Jain, senior consultant, pulmonology, critical care and sleep medicine, PSRI Hospital.
According to Dr Navneet Sood, senior consultant of pulmonology, Dharamshila Narayana Hospital, eating foods high in antioxidants, like fruits and leafy greens, can help reduce the oxidative stress that pollution causes. “Drinking an adequate amount of water is just as essential, as it aids the body in eliminating toxins,” he added.
Dr Sandeep Nayar, principal director and head of chest and respiratory diseases, BLK Max Super Speciality Hospital, recommended minimising exposure to pollutants, both indoors and outdoors. He suggested refraining from burning wood or charcoal and opting for carpooling or public transportation for commuting.
According to Dr Nayar, wearing masks provides limited benefits, and only N95 masks should be used. Air purifiers, he said, can be beneficial for the elderly and those with chronic illnesses. However, to maximise their effectiveness, the room should stay closed at all times.