Delhi AQI: Why Children Are Hit Hardest By Toxic Air, Paediatric Pulmonologist Tells Times Now Digital

Children are more vulnerable to polluted air as their lungs and airways are still developing. (Photo: AI Generated)

The air quality in Delhi-NCR has turned hazardous. After days of steady deterioration, the capital woke up to a thick blanket of smog following Diwali on Monday, with firecracker smoke, crop residue burning in neighbouring states and sluggish winter winds trapping pollutants close to the ground. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi now hovers between 314 and 387, in the “very poor” category, with some pockets slipping into “severe”. At these levels, it is a public health crisis. Dr Nikhil Rajvanshi, Consultant, Paediatric Pulmonologist, Allergy and Sleep Specialist at Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Delhi, spoke to Times Now Digital about what this air is doing to young bodies and what parents can do about it.

Prolonged exposure can impair lung development, reduce lung function, aggravate asthma and increase respiratory infections. He added that emerging evidence also points to possible effects on cardiovascular health and cognitive development.

Children with pre-existing asthma should follow their prescribed treatment plans and keep rescue medication within reach. Difficulty breathing, rapid breathing or bluish lips call for emergency medical care immediately.

Avoid outdoor activity during peak pollution hours…

Original source: https://www.timesnownews.com/delhi