Delhi Records Minimum Temperature With AQI ‘Very Poor’; Impact Of Poor Air Quality On Health During Winters

Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 8.5 degrees Celsius on Saturday, reported the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). The Air Quality Index on Saturday was ‘very poor’ at 322. With temperatures dipping and the poor air quality, the conditions aren’t very good. Air pollution is known to cause several health issues. The World Health Organisation (WHO) describes Air Pollution as “contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere.

“Household combustion devices, motor vehicles, industrial facilities and forest fires are common sources of air pollution. Pollutants of major public health concern include particulate matter, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide. Outdoor and indoor air pollution cause respiratory and other diseases and are important sources of morbidity and mortality.”

Poor air quality during winter often means higher levels of pollutants. These pollutants can irritate the respiratory system, causing coughing, throat irritation and difficulty in breathing.

People who suffer from asthma may experience worsened symptoms due to the pollution. The fine particles and pollutants can trigger asthma attacks and make it harder to manage the condition.

For People with COPD, winter can be challenging. The pollutants can aggravate the COPD symptoms, leading to increased breathlessness and reduced lung function.

Poor air quality is not just a concern for the lungs. It can also have adverse effects on the cardiovascular system. Exposure to pollutants is linked to an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and diseases.

Due to the low temperatures, your immune system can weaken. This makes people more susceptible to respiratory infections. Poor air quality adds an extra layer of stress to the immune system, increasing the chances of falling ill.

Elderly people who have pre-existing health conditions are more vulnerable to the health impacts of poor air quality. Winter air pollution can lead to complications and can make their health conditions worse.

Pregnant women who are exposed to high levels of air pollution face high risks such as preterm birth, low birth weight and developmental issues in the unborn child.

Prolonged exposure to poor air quality can also have mental health implications. Studies also say that exposure to air pollution increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. The stress of dealing with health issues and environmental concerns can contribute to anxiety and other mental health issues.

Long-term exposure to poor air quality during winters can contribute to the development of chronic respiratory conditions. This is especially concerning for children, as their respiratory systems are still developing.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) describes Air Pollution as “contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere.

How does air pollution affect health?

Air pollution is known to cause several health issues. From respiratory issues to chronic health conditions such as heart attack, stroke and others. Air pollution is also known to have an impact on an individual’s mental health. The particulate matter poses health risks, increasing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Air Quality Index (AQI) classification

AQI between 0-50 is considered “good”. AQI between 51-100 is “satisfactory”. AQI between 101-200 is “moderate”. AQI between 201-300 is “poor”. AQI between 301-400 is “very poor”. AQI between 401-500 is “severe”. AQI above 500 is a “severe plus”.