Delhi-NCR Pollution: The deteriorating air quality has wreaked havoc on the residents of the National Capital. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Outdoor air pollution is a major environmental health problem affecting everyone in low-, middle-, and high-income countries.
In 2019, some 37 percent of outdoor air pollution-related premature deaths were due to ischaemic heart disease and stroke, 18 percent and 23 percent of deaths were due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and acute lower respiratory infections respectively, and 11 per cent of deaths were due to cancer within the respiratory tract.
According to Dr Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of Critical Care and Pulmonology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, protecting yourself from the harmful effects of pollution requires both personal precautions as well as broader environmental efforts.
On a personal level, it’s extremely important to adopt the following practices in order to protect yourself from the outside pollution:
- Use of Mask: Use an N95 mask while stepping outside in heavily polluted areas as it can help filter out harmful particles.
- Limit outdoor activities: As the air quality is exceptionally poor, we recommend to stay indoors, keeping windows and doors closed to minimize exposure to polluted air.
- Follow a good diet: A diet that is rick in antioxidants to lower down the harmful cardiovascular effects of air pollution
- Use Air Purifiers: Consider using air purifiers at home if you live in areas prone to pollution or have respiratory issues already.
- Regular check-ups: If you have any pre-existing respiratory ailments, ensure regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your health and manage any symptoms.
“However, it’s equally essential to take action on a larger scale which involves minimizing carbon footprint and advocating for green spaces and spreading awareness in our community about the impacts of pollution,” Dr. Grover said.