The air quality in the capital is deteriorating. The air quality is likely to deteriorate further as Diwali approaches. The air quality index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded at 283 in the ‘poor’ category as the national capital was shrouded in smog. According to the Financial Express report, at 8 am, AQI was recorded at 218 in Anand Vihar, 245 in Punjabi Bagh, 276 at India Gate and 288 in Jhilmil Industrial Area. An AQI between 0-50 is considered “good”, 51-100 is “satisfactory”, 101-200 is “moderate”, 201-300 is “poor”, 301-400 is “very poor”, 401-500 is “poor”. Is considered “serious”. ” and above 500 is a “severe plus”.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution is “the contamination of the indoor or outdoor atmosphere by any chemical, physical or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere.”

It states that outdoor and indoor air pollution causes respiratory and other diseases and is a significant source of morbidity and mortality. “WHO data shows that almost the entire global population (99%) breathes air that exceeds WHO guideline limits and contains high levels of pollutants, with low- and middle-income countries suffering the most exposure Are.”

Air pollution can cause many health problems and it’s not just respiratory diseases. Here, a look at chronic health conditions linked to air pollution.

respiratory disease

Poor air quality is linked to respiratory problems such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and bronchitis. Pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5) irritate the airways, causing inflammation that worsens these conditions.

cardiovascular disease

Air pollution, especially from fine particles and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), can cause cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks, high blood pressure and stroke. Pollutants enter the bloodstream, causing oxidative stress and inflammation in the blood vessels. This ultimately increases the risk of blood clots and artery damage.

lung cancer

Long-term exposure to pollutants, especially carcinogenic compounds, increases the risk of lung cancer. Substances such as benzene and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) damage lung cells leading to mutation and development of cancer.

childhood developmental delay

Children exposed to high levels of air pollution may suffer developmental delays, both physical and cognitive, and have an increased risk of conditions such as autism spectrum disorders.

neurological disorders

Emerging studies link poor air quality to neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Fine particles can enter the brain through the bloodstream or the olfactory nerve. This causes inflammation and brain cell damage over time leading to cognitive decline.

reproductive health issues

Polluted air is also linked to complications in reproductive health, including reduced fertility, premature birth, and low birth weight. Toxins such as heavy metals and endocrine-disrupting chemicals in polluted air can affect hormonal function. This affects fetal development and maternal health.

weak immune system

Exposure to polluted air can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and diseases. Pollutants affect immune cells and reduce the body’s ability to fight pathogens. This increases respiratory and other infections.

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