Health Implications Of Unsafe Air And Ways To Prevent It

Air pollutants stem from various sources, including diesel emissions, construction activities, and urban development, among others, posing a serious threat to our well-being. 

Health problems in children and adults because of unsafe air (Representational Image)

The air we rely on for sustenance is arguably the most crucial element. Yet, the ever-advancing march of time has led to the proliferation of significant airborne contaminants, such as suspended particulate matter found in outdoor air. These pollutants stem from various sources, including diesel emissions, construction activities, and urban development, among others, posing a serious threat to our well-being. 

Health Implication On Children Due To Unsafe Air:

Dr. Amish Vora who is a Pediatrician and Neonatal Intensivist at Bhatia Hospital Mumbai said, "Air pollution is a pervasive and silent threat that has far-reaching consequences, particularly for our youngest members of society. From the moment they take their first breath, children are exposed to the detrimental effects of polluted air. Newborns, in particular, bear a heavy burden, as their vulnerability to air pollution begins right from birth. Their tiny lungs work overtime, breathing two to three times more rapidly than adults, resulting in a higher intake of pollutants and a greater susceptibility to the adverse effects of poor air quality."

"Studies conducted by prominent organizations like UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO) have shed light on the alarming consequences of air pollution on newborns. Children born in areas with unsafe air quality tend to have lower birth weights compared to their counterparts in cleaner environments. This might seem like a minor concern, but low birth weight can set the stage for a cascade of health issues in these infants," he continued to say.

Talking about the probelms casued by low birth weight babies he said, "Low birth weight babies often face a myriad of health challenges, including a higher risk of infections, developmental delays, and even mortality. It's a stark reminder that air pollution's impact on children is not limited to just the respiratory system; it infiltrates every aspect of their well-being. Unfortunately, the damaging influence of air pollution doesn't wane as children grow. Instead, it persists throughout their childhood and adolescence."

One of the most concerning findings is that polluted air can damage not only children's respiratory systems but also their brains and other vital organs. As a result, there is a generation grappling with a plethora of issues, from reduced lung function and increased asthma rates to more insidious consequences like impaired cognitive development.

"Children exposed to unsafe air quality often exhibit compromised cognitive abilities, lower IQ scores, and difficulties in developing essential social skills. This has far-reaching implications, not just for their immediate health but for their long-term prospects as well. Impaired cognitive development can hinder their educational journey, limiting their potential and future opportunities," Dr. Vora further added.

In essence, air pollution is not just a health crisis but an educational and social one too. It threatens to create a generation of young individuals who face uphill battles in their pursuit of knowledge, success, and a fulfilling life. The implications of this silent threat are profound and should serve as a wake-up call for all of us.

Health Implications In Adults Because Of Unsafe Air

There are various pollutants in the air like dust, finely suspended particulate matter, and exhaust from fossil fuel burning that have nitric oxide, ozone, Sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and many more. Millions of smokers in our country add fumes to the air containing more than 700 types of chemicals, some of which are potential carcinogens. Increasing numbers of lung cancer patients each year are substantial evidence of this fact.

According to Dr. Sachet Dawar, Faculty of Medical Respiratory of Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences & Hospital, "Biomass and fuel burning, including crop burning, remain widespread in our country and are deteriorating the air quality and increasing health implications. Airborne pollutants, contingent on their size, can infiltrate through the nasal and oral passages, impacting the respiratory system's lung tissue and potentially entering the bloodstream, affecting various organs such as the heart, brain, kidneys, and more."

"Health implications in adults because of unsafe air range from mild illnesses like exacerbations of asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), which can be life-threatening. Any person suffering from respiratory ailments like asthma COPD and allergic rhinitis should monitor their symptoms and seek timely advice from their doctor in case of worsening," he added.

Role Of EV In Mitigating Pollution:

In this regard, Tushar Choudhary, who is the Founder & CEO at Motovolt Mobility Pvt Ltd said, "EVs play a pivotal role in mitigating pollution and fostering a safer environment. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, thus improving air quality in urban areas. They help combat climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions since they are typically powered by cleaner energy sources, such as electricity from renewables."

"Furthermore, EVs are quieter than traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, reducing noise pollution in cities and contributing to a more peaceful and healthier living environment. They also decrease our dependence on fossil fuels, enhancing energy security and reducing the risks associated with oil spills and transportation accidents. Additionally, EVs have fewer moving parts, leading to lower maintenance needs, which can reduce the release of hazardous materials associated with vehicle repairs and disposal. Overall, electric vehicles are a crucial component of creating a greener, cleaner, and safer future for our planet."

Other Preventive Measures That Can Be Taken:

We generate harmful VOCs, gases, and formaldehyde in our homes through cooking gases, the use of fragrances and detergents, varnishes, paints, etc. Even though these activities seem normal as they are essential in our day-to-day lives, constant exposure to these pollutants without any proper ventilation can cause severe long-term ailments like dizziness, asthma, shortness of breath, headaches, irritation of eyes and skin, fatigue, etc. This raises a question in our minds as to how we introduce ventilation in our homes. 

In this regard, Rajesh Sachdev, who is the CEO of Blutherm said, "Having access to proper ventilation and good air quality in our indoor spaces is of utmost importance. Ventilation plays a pivotal part in maintaining a fresh and healthy terrain inside homes. One key benefit of good ventilation is that it helps reduce humidity in the air. Humidity can lead to mould growth, which not only damages our homes but also poses serious health pitfalls."

He further listed down other ways in which air inside our homes can be made better.

• Install exhaust systems in kitchens and bathrooms to expel polluted air.
• Open windows regularly to allow for natural cross-ventilation.
• Consider investing in whole-house mechanical ventilation systems.
• Maintain cleanliness by regularly dusting shelves and vacuuming carpets.

These precautions and the use of available modern solutions will go a long way in improving the whole family's health.