New Delhi, December 20 (IANS). Pollution in Delhi NCR has reached very serious category. This trend has been going on for a month, although the situation was under control to some extent, but once again the AQI has put people on their nerves. Pollution also has a bad effect on ears, nose and throat. Recently, a survey was conducted in Delhi regarding this, in which shocking facts came to light.
The survey conducted by healthcare provider Pristine Care covered 56,176 individuals from cities like Delhi, Meerut, Faridabad, Noida, Ghaziabad, Rohtak, Chandigarh, Kanpur etc. Of these, almost half (41 percent) saw a significant increase in eye-related health problems during periods of high pollution, while 55 percent reported problems affecting their ears, nose or throat. Of these, 38 percent have complained of irritation and swelling in the eyes due to pollution. Common symptoms like redness and itching in the eyes were seen in its affected people.
People noted an increase in these diseases as pollution increased. This also included ENT problems like sore throat, nasal irritation and ear discomfort. These health problems raised long-term concerns.
The survey revealed that 68 percent of people suffering from ENT problems do not consult healthcare professionals.
Dr. Dhirendra Singh, ENT surgeon, Pristine Care, said, “Hazardous air quality is a concern for everyone’s health. Children are especially sensitive to this. Exposure to such air can irritate the sensitive mucous membranes in the nose and ears, resulting in chronic conditions over time. To avoid all this, it is necessary to reduce external contact, wear a mask and stay hydrated. Along with this, special attention should also be paid to eye health.
Dr Vaibhav Kapoor, co-founder of Pristine Care, said, “It is surprising to know how lightly people take pollution and its harmful effects on health. There is an urgent need for measures to increase the increase in eye and ENT related health problems. Emphasizes that with increasing pollution levels, individuals need to take proactive steps to protect their health.”
Despite these challenges, the survey revealed a lack of adoption among the public of measures to deal with them. Only 35 percent reported wearing protective eyewear or sunglasses, and about 40 percent admitted to taking no special precautions for ENT-related issues on high pollution days. Still, more than half expressed concern about the long-term effects of pollution on eye and ENT health.
–IANS
MKS/KR
