The danger of air pollution is not limited to lung and respiratory diseases. It is also affecting the heart, blood vessels, diabetes, pregnancy, physical development and mental health of children. This has been revealed in a new analysis by the Center for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA). According to the report, more than 91% of more than 180 studies conducted over the past 50 years have found an association between pollution and at least one adverse health effect.
Serious dangers of pollution revealed in 180 studies
CREA analyzed 180 studies published between 1975 and 2025. In this, heart disease, diabetes, complications in pregnancy, affected growth of children, tumors, blood related disorders and mental and neurological problems were found to be linked to air pollution.
Serious impact of pollution even in rural areas
According to the report, the threat of pollution is not limited only to metros like Delhi-Mumbai. Of the 40 studies that focused on rural populations, 38 found at least one adverse health effect.
CREA analyst Manoj Kumar said the strategy to tackle air pollution should not be limited to cities only. It is important to include rural areas also in the next phase of the National Clean Air Program (NCAP 2.0). For this there is a need to adopt an airshed based strategy.
Most research on pollution and health in Delhi
In terms of studies, Delhi stood first with 26 researches. After this, 13 studies were conducted in Punjab, 11 each in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, 10 in West Bengal and nine in Tamil Nadu.
Gaseous pollutants along with PM2.5 are also dangerous
The analysis also examined the effects of PM2.5, PM10 and gaseous pollutants such as sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides. These increase the risk of respiratory diseases, hospitalization, asthma and impaired lung function.
What needs to be done to stop pollution?
According to experts, merely reducing PM2.5 is not enough. It is also necessary to control emissions from industries, power plants, domestic fuel and other sources. Also, a comprehensive strategy will have to be adopted to reduce PM2.5 and surface ozone forming gases.
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