By the fag end of the year especially in the month of October and November, we all smoke as the pollution is equal to smoking 30 cigarettes a day.
Since the past few years, increased level of pollution is not new to the population of Delhi NCR. It is due to burning of firecrackers, burning of stubble, dust from construction and last but not the least, smoke from the vehicles. The lower temperatures in winters and the presence of fog do not let the particulate matter & pollution dissipate upwards and it stays in the environment leading to infections and disorders of the lungs.
The most dangerous and fatal pollutant is PM2.5. The increased levels of PM2.5 in the environment make the air unfit to breathe in. Consequently, the Air Quality Index (AQI) also gets worse because of the decrease in air flow. The particulate matter stays suspended in the air during the months of November & December especially in the mornings and evenings. Loaded with pollutants like PM2.5 and smoke, this air becomes extremely toxic and hazardous for children and senior citizens of the capital. According to the WHO, 7 million people perish annually due to air pollution, and this number will increase if air quality continues to deteriorate in the future.
Air Pollution has gained massive spotlight and risen to the top as the single, most common cause for various health concerns for the population of Delhi NCR. The UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change issued a warning this month, stating that if we want to keep global warming increases to 1.5C, coal-fired electricity must cease by 2050. If not, a serious climate crisis might emerge in just 20 years.
You can actively avoid causing harm to your lungs –
- Consultation with a Healthcare ProfessionalIf there is any difficulty in breathing, it is advised to consult a healthcare professional at the earliest.
- Wear a N95 MaskWearing N95 face masks whenever outside can prevent harm to your lungs. Avoid stepping out during peak traffic hours and avoid exercising outdoors when the AQI is high.
- Deep Breathing ExercisesHelps keep the lungs healthy by increasing the lung volumes and lung capacities.
- The best way would be to exercise and get rid of the toxins from your lungs. Start slow and increase the frequency of exercises. It builds cardiovascular endurance too. One must exercise at least 2-3 times a week.
- A healthy, nutritious and balanced diet is crucial to avoid maximum number of diseases. Choose a healthy diet with a variety of fruits and vegetables. Food sources of vitamins and nutrients are considered the best.
- Mind the Indoor AQIThe air inside your homes and offices isn’t really clean hence using air purifiers or HEPA filters would help improve the indoor air quality. There are some plants that help purify the air so you can add those to your home and office. It also adds a green touch to your aesthetic!
In conclusion, it is immensely important to pay close attention to the environment and be mindful of the air you breathe. It is you who needs to take preventive measures for you and your loved ones in time and the best part is we can spread awareness and do it together. Let’s not make it a way to live.