Asrani's death reason: Asrani had been admitted to Mumbai's Arogya Nidhi Hospital for five days. Doctors reported that his COPD had worsened. His breathing problems had worsened to the point where he had to be put on oxygen support.

What is the reason behind Asrani's death?

Famous Bollywood comedian Asrani (84), who made everyone laugh with his witty style, passed away, leaving his fans in tears. He breathed his last on Monday (October 20) at around 3 pm. It is reported that Asrani was suffering from a serious lung disease. Let us understand how dangerous pollution is for lung patients. 

How did Asrani's health deteriorate?

According to reports, Asrani had been admitted to Mumbai's Arogya Nidhi Hospital for five days. Doctors reported that his chronic respiratory disease (COPD) had worsened. Breathing difficulties had become so severe that he had to be placed on oxygen support. Doctors believe that pollution from firecracker smoke is extremely dangerous for such patients. In fact, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide released from firecrackers constrict the lung tubes, exacerbating problems like shortness of breath, coughing, and bronchitis. Such pollution can reduce lung capacity by up to 30 percent in elderly people like Asrani.

How much pollution was there in Mumbai?

On Diwali day, October 20th, the country's financial capital, Mumbai, also struggled with pollution. According to the Central Pollution Control Board's website, the average PM 2.5 concentration in Mumbai on October 20th was 339 micrograms per cubic meter, nearly six times the WHO limit of 50. PM 2.5 particles in the air penetrate the lungs and cause inflammation. A report by the Indian Chest Society states that respiratory infections increase by 40 percent after Diwali. 

How dangerous is pollution for lung patients?

Doctors say that Diwali pollution is toxic to the lungs. According to Dr. Radhika Sharma, senior consultant pulmonologist at Vinayak Health Hospital in Delhi, the effects of smog last for up to a week after Diwali. This reduces lung function by 25 percent. Breathing becomes difficult for patients with chronic conditions like COPD or asthma. In fact, PM2.5 particles enter the bloodstream and increase the risk of heart attack.

How to avoid Diwali pollution?

According to Dr. Harshal R. Salve, Additional Professor, Center for Community Medicine, AIIMS, Delhi, Diwali pollution exacerbates asthma and COPD in the short term. In the long term, it increases the risk of cardio-respiratory disease, stroke, and heart attack. Furthermore, at an AQI of 335, respiratory illnesses worsen by up to 40 percent. Therefore, wearing a mask is recommended to avoid any complications.