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The alarming surge in hospital visits and admissions of infants and children in Delhi-NCR is a direct consequence of the severe air pollution plaguing the region. Hazardous levels of pollutants are causing a significant increase in respiratory illnesses and other health problems among young children, with those under two years of age being particularly vulnerable. The situation highlights a critical public health crisis demanding immediate and coordinated action. Hospitals are reporting a substantial increase in patients, many of whom have no pre-existing respiratory conditions. However, children with asthma and other comorbid conditions are experiencing acute exacerbations of their symptoms, requiring urgent medical attention, including oxygen therapy and hospitalization.
Experts attribute this surge to the detrimental effects of air pollution on children's developing bodies. Air pollution impairs neurodevelopment and cognitive function, significantly affecting the overall health and future well-being of the affected children. It can trigger asthma attacks and increase the risk of childhood cancers. Long-term exposure to high levels of air pollution also poses a significant risk of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular problems later in life. The smaller airways and higher respiratory rates of children, coupled with their still-developing lungs and immune systems, make them especially susceptible to the harmful effects of air pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide.
The severity of the situation is underscored by the experiences of pediatricians across Delhi-NCR. Dr. Dinesh Raj from Holy Family Hospital reports a 25-30% increase in children presenting with respiratory complaints compared to the previous month, with one to two out of every ten children requiring hospitalization. Dr. RD Srivastava from Sri Balaji Action Medical Institution sees four to five children daily with respiratory problems, exhibiting symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and a burning sensation in the lungs. Dr. Rahul Nagpal at Fortis Vasant Kunj observes a similar trend, noting an increase in children with dry eyes, headaches, fatigue, allergies, and shortness of breath. These observations consistently demonstrate the significant impact of Delhi's air pollution on children's respiratory and overall health.
Parents are urged to take proactive measures to protect their children. Dr. Maninder Dhaliwal from Amrita Hospital suggests following the 'CLEAN AIR' acronym, encompassing eight key steps. This involves daily monitoring of the Air Quality Index (AQI) and limiting outdoor activities during periods of poor air quality. Parents should ensure children wear appropriate masks when venturing outdoors, particularly in heavily polluted areas. Using air purifiers indoors, boosting children's immunity through a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, fruits, and vegetables, and ensuring adequate hydration are vital. Minimizing indoor pollutants by avoiding smoking, using clean cooking fuels, and ensuring proper ventilation are also crucial measures. Early identification of symptoms like respiratory distress and educating children about air pollution are equally important steps in mitigating the impact of this environmental hazard.
The situation calls for a multifaceted approach involving both individual actions and systemic changes. While parents can implement protective measures at home, addressing the root cause of the problem—the consistently high levels of air pollution in Delhi-NCR—requires a concerted effort from government agencies, industries, and the community at large. This involves stringent enforcement of pollution control measures, promoting sustainable transportation, and implementing effective policies to reduce emissions from various sources. The ongoing health crisis among Delhi's children serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive and sustainable solutions to address this pressing environmental and public health issue. Failure to act decisively will continue to endanger the health and well-being of future generations.