The climate of the capital Delhi is deteriorating even before Diwali. The level of air pollution has been reported to be increasing here in the last few days. The air quality remained 'poor' on Sunday, with the national capital recording 245 AQI. The air quality near Anand Vihar was recorded at 345 in the 'very poor' category. However, there has been some improvement on Monday.
The air quality improved on Monday morning and was recorded at a moderate level. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi's air quality index (AQI) as of 7 a.m. on October 16 was 199.
Similarly, in the National Capital Region (NCR), the average 24-hour AQI in Noida was in the 200 (moderate) category, Ghaziabad air quality was recorded at 174 (moderate) and Greater Noida at 260 (poor). Health experts say this type of air quality can increase a variety of health risks.
What do health experts say?
To learn about the deteriorating air quality in Delhi in October and the health risks it poses, we spoke to Dr Vishwas Sinha, a respiratory disease specialist at a hospital in Greater Noida. Dr. Vishwas says, for the last few years, there has been a decline in air quality after Diwali, this time the reports before Diwali are quite worrying.
The level of air pollution is considered to increase many types of health problems, for which all people need to be constantly careful. The particles present in polluted air are harmful to overall health.
Negative impact of air pollution on health
Exposure to air pollution can negatively affect health. When we breathe in air pollutants, they enter our bloodstream and can cause respiratory and lung diseases including cough and itchy eyes. Studies have found that if you are exposed to air pollution for a long time, then this condition can be a factor in serious problems like stroke, and dementia.
The way the air quality remains poor in Delhi, people here need to be alert about such problems.
The risk from heart disease, stroke cancer
Studies conducted on the ill effects of air pollution have found that exposure to it increases the risk of respiratory infections, heart disease, stroke as well as lung cancer. Additionally, air pollution conditions can also more seriously affect people who are already sick. Exposure to air pollution significantly increases the risk of chronic diseases ranging from lung diseases such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to dementia.
How to stay safe from this?
Dr. Vishwas says that all people should keep making efforts to protect themselves from air pollution. This is a seriously problematic condition, some lifestyle changes can help protect you from its side effects. Maintain a better ventilation system inside the house. Wear a mask when outdoors to protect against pollutants such as wood smoke, vehicle exhaust, and other sources of airborne particles. Diet and breathing exercises are also very important to protect against pollutants.
(PC: iStock)
