New Delhi: On Monday, Delhiites were thrust into a harrowing battle against the worst pollution this season, compelled to breathe air laden with dangerous contaminants and navigating a shroud of thick toxic smog.
Even one hour of exposure to high levels of particulate pollutants, warn medical experts, can trigger immediate negative health impacts. When these particles enter the respiratory system, they can cause inflammation in the lungs, leading to reduced lung functionality and heightened airway resistance within a brief timeframe.
People with existing respiratory ailments, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), face heightened risks as exposure can worsen their condition and necessitate treatment. Studies indicate that short-term contact with these pollutants affects the cardiovascular system, causing elevated heart rate and blood pressure due to increased strain on the heart and blood vessels.
Prof Dr G C Khilnani, chairman, PSRI Institute of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, and a member of WHO’s Technical Advisory Group on Global Air Pollution and Health, told TOI that five consecutive patients in his OPD who were earlier stable recently showed new symptoms, such as cough, sore throat, chest tightness, runny nose, breathlessness and wheezing for four-five days. Notably, they showed no signs of fever, and their condition did not improve with increased use of an inhaler or a nebuliser.
Dr Khilnani also observed patients with no prior respiratory conditions who sought treatment for cough and breathlessness during the previous week. Their X-ray results appeared normal, and spirometry tests showed no new alterations in lung function.
Dr Arvind Kumar, chairman, lung transplant, Medanta, said particulate pollutants enter the respiratory system, settle in the lungs and travel throughout the body, affecting various organs — from the brain to the limbs. Children frequently develop breathing problems, persistent cough, allergies, asthma and pneumonia. Adults struggle with breathing difficulties, while the elderly are prone to pneumonia. The range of respiratory ailments is extensive, including increased instances of tuberculosis and lung cancer.
Air pollution is associated with 25% of heart attacks and there is an increase in early-onset hypertension and cardiac rhythm abnormalities, he added. The neurological effects include increased hyperactivity and reduced IQ levels in children. People exposed to pollution show higher occurrences of strokes.
Research indicates higher instances of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in pollution-exposed populations. Studies show exposure to polluted air is associated with nearly all known medical conditions, including liver and kidney disorders, fertility problems, diabetes, obesity and breast cancer.
Extended exposure to poor air with high concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 correlates with increased lung cancer risk. Dr Nikhil Modi, senior consultant, respiratory and critical care, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, said, “Long-term inhalation of these fine particles contributes to carcinogenic processes within lung tissues due to their ability to penetrate deep into the lungs and enter systemic circulation.”
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) categorises outdoor air pollution as a Group 1 carcinogen, supported by substantial evidence linking it to lung cancer development.
Some elements in particulate matter, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals, are established carcinogens that increase cellular damage progressively. Research also indicates people residing in highly polluted areas show significantly higher lung cancer rates compared to those in less polluted regions.
Dr Nitin Rathi, senior consultant, pulmonology, Dharamshila Narayana Hospital, underlined the need to cut exposure to polluted air by staying indoors, particularly during poor air quality periods, and monitoring air quality indicators regularly. He suggested protective measures like air purifiers and N95 masks.
Dr Arunesh Kumar, senior consultant, respiratory medicine, Paras Health, said following prescribed treatments is vital for protection and recommended seeking prompt medical attention if symptoms develop.
Dr Gyandeep Mangal, principal consultant in pulmonology, interventional pulmonology and sleep medicine, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, said short-term exposure to pollution can be equally detrimental as long-term exposure. Healthcare centres are witnessing an increase in patients seeking care for asthma, COPD and cardiac arrhythmias.
The elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable. Studies have shown several air pollutants contain carcinogenic properties. He recommended maintaining a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and proper hydration.
