Delhi and its surrounding cities, including Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and Faridabad, have been grappling with severe air pollution for the past 2-3 weeks. Despite a ban on firecrackers and appeals for eco-friendly celebrations, the massive Diwali fireworks have only exacerbated the pollution crisis in the region. These fireworks have released harmful pollutants such as particulate matter, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide.
On Tuesday evening, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi reached 370, according to data from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). This alarming level of pollution has raised concerns about the impact on individuals suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
COPD is a progressive lung condition that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It is characterized by inflamed and narrowed airways, leading to increased mucus production and damage to the lung’s air sacs. Symptoms of COPD include chronic cough, phlegm, shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness.
Dr. (Col) Vijay Dutta, Director of Internal Medicine and Respiratory Services at the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, stated, It is a pity that despite a ban on firecrackers and appeals to switch to green crackers, massive fireworks on Diwali made the situation more alarming. Firecrackers release various pollutants, including particulate matter (PM), sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and carbon monoxide (CO). While cigarette smoking is a primary risk factor, prolonged exposure to air pollutants contributes significantly to COPD.
Dr. Animesh Arya, Senior Consultant in Pulmonology at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, also highlighted the emerging risk of COPD as an independent factor for future heart disease. He urged for improved lung health through lifestyle changes, smoking cessation, and raising public awareness against the menace of air pollution.
Recent research published in ‘The Lancet’ revealed that COPD is the third leading cause of death worldwide, with 3.3 million deaths recorded in 2019. China reported the highest toll, followed by India and the US. India is estimated to bear the third-highest economic burden of COPD between 2020 and 2050, coming after China and the US.
COPD incurs 2-4 times higher costs in India compared to asthma and ischaemic heart disease. Management of acute exacerbations of COPD contributes 45-70% to the total expenses of COPD management. The economic loss caused by COPD in India exceeds 100,000 crore rupees per annum, and this figure is expected to escalate due to the increased prevalence of COPD and inadequate awareness among the community and healthcare professionals. Experts suggest implementing cost-effective interventions like community-based COPD screening to reduce COPD morbidity and mortality rates.
Dr. Sandeep Jain, Consultant in Pulmonology at Narayana Hospital, Howrah, emphasized the importance of maintaining optimal lung health, stating, We’ve come to understand that COPD, traditionally associated with tobacco smoking, can be influenced by various factors and manifest early in life, affecting even young individuals.
The severe air pollution crisis in Delhi, worsened by the Diwali fireworks, highlights the urgent need for effective measures to combat pollution and protect public health. It is crucial to prioritize the improvement of air quality, raise awareness about COPD, and promote healthy lifestyles to ensure a better future for all.
