Children’s lungs and air pollution: Parental advice on protecting their children’s lungs from smog

Following Diwali, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and other North Indian states experienced an increase in air pollution, leading to the return of a dense layer of smog to the nation’s capital. The overall air quality index (AQI) remained in the “very poor” category at 10 am, with 301 reading after residents disregarded the prohibition on firecrackers on Diwali night. An AQI of 0–50 is regarded as “good,” 51–100 as “satisfactory,” 101–200 as “moderate,” 201–300 as “poor,” 301–400 as “very poor,” and 401–500 as “severe.”

Even worse air quality readings were obtained in other parts of Delhi, including 315 in Shadipur, 311 in Ayanagar, 308 in Lodhi Road, 355 in Pusa, and 333 in Jahangirpuri. Whereas the AQI in Gurugram was 351 in Sector 51 and 264 in Vikash Sadan, it was reported at 304 in New Industrial Town, 341 in Sector 16-A, and 275 in Ballabhgarh in Haryana’s Faridabad.

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Pediatrician and Cheers Clinic Care founder Dr. Nihar Parekh stated, “The worrisome growth in India’s air pollution index is concerning not only for kids but for the environment as well. During this stage of development, while the body’s anatomy is still forming, this obstruction may cause a lung growth crisis. Our children are growing up in an era where the poisons and other particulates they breathe in every day can have a significant impact on the development of their lungs, among other organs, naturally. This suggests that childhood respiratory problems will increase in the near future. We should take action against this silent threat that may endanger children’s ability to breathe before air pollution becomes a pandemic.

Although environmental specialists should handle managing the Air Quality Index (AQI), parents can protect their children’s lungs from this risk by taking certain precautions. “Teach your children to always wear masks when they go outside, especially in areas where air pollution from cars and industries is a major problem.” In order to lower the chance of them consuming contaminants, teach kids to wash their hands often, especially after playing outside. Limit your kids’ outside playtime on days with poor air quality, especially during the hours of worst pollution. Instead, promote indoor activities. Consuming a diet high in vitamins and antioxidants can help shield your child’s lungs. Urge them to consume veggies and fruits.

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He said, “Children with underlying respiratory conditions like asthma and cystic fibrosis should receive extra care.” Parents of these children need to keep up with local air quality news and apps for real-time updates. When there is poor outdoor air quality, close your windows and doors to keep contaminants inside your house. Make a quality investment in air purifiers for your house, with a focus on the bedroom of your child. Make sure they are capable of effectively filtering out allergens and contaminants. Make an appointment for routine check-ups with your child’s pediatrician to talk about any concerns and keep an eye on their lung health.