A recent survey conducted by doctors in a metropolitan city revealed that 50% of people experience coughing due to air pollution. Additionally, Hinduja Hospital’s Consultant Respiratory Specialist, Dr. Lancelot Pinto, highlighted several other health issues linked to air pollution. Experts have emphasized the need to review the health impact of pollution caused by ongoing construction work in Mumbai and implement effective regulations.
During a discussion organized by the environmental organization ‘Asar’ on the role of construction work in air pollution, several experts, including Dr. Rakesh Kumar, President of the Society for Indoor Environment, Deputy Municipal Commissioner Kiran Dighavkar, and Dr. Lancelot Pinto, participated. Dr. Pinto presented various studies linking air pollution to health problems.
The survey found that 50% of respondents reported increased coughing due to dust and pollution, while 22% cited smoking and 28% blamed flu. Additionally, 42% mentioned that pollution affects their breathing, 22% had to take leave from work due to respiratory illnesses, and 23% found it difficult to commute to the office because of breathing problems.
Dr. Pinto stated that air pollution exacerbates health conditions in patients suffering from asthma, COPD, and lung fibrosis. Dr. Rakesh Kumar stressed the importance of collaborative efforts across different sectors to create effective pollution control regulations.
Health Issues Caused by Air Pollution:
- Irritation in nose and ears
- Watery eyes
- Heart diseases
- Lung cancer
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Lower respiratory tract infections like pneumonia
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Cataracts
How Construction Sites Contribute to Air Pollution:
- Machinery releases dust, noise, and harmful gases like NOx and CO.
- Transport and handling of construction materials further add to pollution.
How to Protect Yourself from Air Pollution:
- Wear a mask in polluted areas.
- Stay hydrated to minimize health risks.
- Limit time outdoors
