While the city battles with visible vehicular air pollution, indoor air pollution is also a cause of worry for people as it too has debilitating impact on their health.
According to a study conducted at Vallabhai Patel Chest Institute (VPCI), the burning of incense sticks and mosquito coil indoor emits quiet higher particulate matter (PM) which may accumulate and lead to respiratory illnesses.
Dr Raj Kumar, HoD Respiratory Allergy and Applied Immunology, at VPCI, along with other pulmonologists, found that burning of aromatic sticks increases the concentration of PM such as PM1, PM 2.5 and PM 10 about 15times more than the permitted levels. The smoke of incense sticks produces harmful pollutants which attacks respiratory system.
The PM levels during burning phase were highest for incense sticks as compared to the mosquito coil, said the study.
“Incenses sticks are a major source of indoor combustion, leading to an increase in the concentration of particulate matter. The burning brings inflammatory changes, which directly attacks respiratory system and thus causes diseases such asthma and bronchitis,” said Dr Raj Kumar.
In order to get rid of indoor air pollution, health officials said the households should have better ventilation as higher PM level leads to serious respiratory concerns.
“People should use air purifiers in their houses. Medical experts are of the view that, people should avoid burning these aromatic sticks at home especially when young ones and elderly people are around,” said health officials.