Know The Impact Of Pollution On Vulnerable Population

Pollutants that result in major public health concerns include particulate matter, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide.

Impact Of Pollution On Vulnerable Population ( Image Source :Getty )

Air pollution is contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical or biological agent. It is due to household combustion devices, motor vehicles, industrial facilities and forest fires. Pollutants that result in major public health concerns include particulate matter, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide. 

According to Dr. Sreenivasan V, who is a Consultant & Interventional Pulmonologist at Gleneagles HealthCity Chennai, "Each year, 3.2 million people die prematurely from illnesses attributable to the household air pollution caused by the incomplete combustion of solid fuels and kerosene used for cooking leading to lower respiratory infection (LRI), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), ischaemic heart disease, lung cancer and stroke. In addition to that, exposure to household air pollution almost doubles the risk for childhood LRI and is responsible for 44% of all pneumonia deaths in children less than 5 years old."

Effect Of Excessive Exposure To Pollution:

Dr. Vasunethra Kasaragod, who is a Consultant - Pulmonology at Manipal Hospital Millers Road said, "Exposure to polluted air induces inflammation in these airways leading to bronchitis. Common symptoms of bronchitis include cough with whitish sputum, wheezing, and breathlessness. If these are not treated early, repeated exposure can lead to chronic bronchitis or COPD which is an irreversible disease. Patients who have underlying lung conditions like asthma, COPD, interstitial lung disease, post-COVID-19 fibrosis, etc have higher incidence and severity of pollution-induced effects. Generating awareness of the harmful effects of pollution is the need of the hour. Current and future generations need cleaner air to survive. Major efforts from public and private players is required in this direction."

Preventive Measures To Take:

Talking about measures to take to reduce the effects of air pollution, Dr Manjunath P H, who is a Consultant Interventional Pulmonologist at Gleneagles Hospital Kengeri, Bengaluru said, "Air pollution has a negative impact on lung health starting from infants to elderly. In infants and children, it affects the lung growth and also causes allergies in children with an increase in complaints of irritation in the eyes and skin rashes with bad air quality. To stay safe from pollution, always wear a mask while going out. When you think air quality is poor avoid going out. Take measures to improve the overall health of our body by taking adequate healthy diet and adequate physical activities."

In addition, Dr. Sreenivasan V said, "In old age group due to poor immunity and respiratory defences they are more prone for bacterial, viral and fungal infections. Timely vaccination may help them to build their immunity and prevent from the above infections. Now a days everyone needs to have good hydration, good sleep, timely intake of food, and healthy lifestyle by which we can reduce our stress levels and boost our immune power."

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]