Air pollution: Everything you need to know about this silent threat

Every day, millions of Indians step outside, take a deep breath, and carry on with their lives. But what if that simple act of breathing is slowly harming us? Air pollution, an invisible enemy, has become a silent killer, claiming thousands of lives across the country each year.
How deaths are happening
Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to polluted air significantly increases the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.In urban areas, where pollution levels are often the highest, residents are particularly vulnerable. The primary pollutants responsible for these health issues include particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone (O3).

Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10): These fine particles penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. They cause inflammation and exacerbate conditions like asthma, chronic bronchitis, and other respiratory illnesses. Long-term exposure can lead to lung cancer.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): Emitted mainly from vehicles and industrial processes, NO2 irritates the airways and reduces lung function, leading to respiratory infections and chronic lung diseases.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2): Released from burning fossil fuels, SO2 aggravates conditions like asthma and contributes to respiratory problems.
Ozone (O3): Ground-level ozone, formed by chemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen and volatile organic compounds in sunlight, can cause chest pain, coughing, and throat irritation, and worsen bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma.
Impact on vulnerable populations
Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions are at the highest risk. For children, growing up in polluted environments can stunt lung development, leading to lifelong health issues. The elderly, often already dealing with health problems, find their conditions worsened by polluted air. Moreover, pregnant women exposed to high levels of pollution are more likely to give birth to premature or underweight babies, adding to the generational impact of air pollution.

Death toll in India
The numbers are staggering. According to the Global Burden of Disease Study, air pollution contributes to over 1.6 million deaths annually in India, making it one of the leading causes of mortality in the country. This means that on average, air pollution is responsible for nearly 4,400 deaths each day. These deaths are often due to:
Cardiovascular Diseases: Exposure to air pollution increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Fine particulate matter can trigger heart disease, leading to premature death.
Respiratory Diseases: Chronic exposure to pollutants can cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung infections, and lung cancer, all of which can be fatal.
Other Health Impacts: Air pollution has also been linked to diabetes, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and neurological disorders, contributing to the overall death toll.
Economic and social impact
Beyond health, the economic burden of air pollution is immense. The cost of healthcare, loss of productivity due to illness, and the environmental damage impact the country’s economy significantly. Efforts to combat air pollution require substantial investment in cleaner technologies, stricter enforcement of emission standards, and public awareness campaigns.
Moving forward
Despite the grim statistics, there is hope. The Indian government has launched initiatives like the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), aiming to reduce particulate pollution by 20-30% by 2024. Citizens are also becoming more aware and are advocating for cleaner air. The adoption of electric vehicles, the shift towards renewable energy, and better waste management practices are steps in the right direction.
In conclusion, while air pollution is a formidable challenge, it is not insurmountable. With collective effort from the government, industries, and individuals, India can breathe easier and ensure a healthier future for its citizens. As we move forward, let’s remember that every breath we take should be a step towards cleaner air and a healthier life.
(Author: Dr Ravi Shekhar Jha, Director & HOD, Pulmonology, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad)