As Delhiites woke up to a smoggy morning on Thursday, pulmonologists have advised residents, especially those with lung diseases,
to stay indoors. According to the National Air Quality Index (NAQI), levels of pollutants were measured “very high” while the advisory status has bracketed the air quality to remain “severe” for some more days.
Dr Vikas Maurya, Pulmonologist at BlK hospital, said prolonged exposure to highly toxic air can cause cardiac arrest and lung cancer.
“The current air quality is going to impact those with respiratory problems, especially asthmatic patients, negatively. However, it also creates problems for those facing cardiac and nervous system problems. The long-term exposure to pollutants in the air increases chances of lung cancer and heart attack,” said Maurya.
“Pollutants can affect foetus growth,” he cautioned pregnant women. He advised use of mask as a necessary precautionary measure when going out in the open air. “One should avoid going outdoors. One should use mask like N-95 or N-99. Parents must take care of children as toxic air can affect lung growth in them,” Dr Maurya said.
While Air Quality Index in cities like Mumbai, Chennai and Bengaluru has shown considerable improvement, it is still ‘severe’ for Delhi and NCR. The reasons given by the air monitoring agencies are adverse weather conditions; such as low wind speed coupled with drop in temperature and high humidity, which has blocked dispersal of pollutants.
The Central Pollution Control Board data also showed increase in toxicity. Dipankar Saha, a scientist working with CPCB, said the high-level of pollution is due to adverse weather conditions.