Health of Asia's population paying drastic costs over pollution

Severe air pollution remains a persistent challenge across South Asia, with the 100 most-polluted cities globally all located in Asia. In November 2024, residents in cities such as New Delhi, India, and areas of Pakistan faced hazardous smog levels, leading to suspended outdoor construction and school closures.

Despite the urgent need for precautions, mitigating air pollution exposure remains a significant challenge, the Deutsche Welle noted on, especially pointing to highly polluted regions.

Smog, a mix of "smoke" and "fog," forms when pollutants like ozone, particulate matter, sulfates, nitrates, and other toxic chemicals interact with sunlight in foggy conditions. These pollutants are primarily released during combustive processes in industrial factories, vehicles, and household heating systems. Due to their microscopic size, these particles can enter the lungs and bloodstream, causing significant health risks.

Health Impacts of Air Pollution

Exposure to smog and air pollution can result in severe health consequences. Short-term effects include aggravated respiratory problems like asthma, impaired lung function, and worsened acute conditions. If exposed to long periods of times, chronic conditions such as cancer, strokes, heart disease, and obstructive pulmonary diseases can develop.

Children and individuals over 65 are particularly vulnerable. A 2024 study in Germany found that children exposed to cleaner air from conception to their first year required less medication in early childhood. Furthermore, early exposure to air pollution has been linked to lower academic performance, reduced test scores, and diminished lifetime earnings. Studies consistently show no safe levels of air pollution, with even minor increases in particulate matter leading to adverse effects.

Protective Measures Against Smog

Protecting oneself from smog involves minimizing exposure, though this can be challenging in high-pollution cities like New Delhi or Lahore. Authorities in such areas often enforce restrictions on outdoor activities, vehicle use, and outdoor construction during severe smog events. Residents are advised to use air filtration mechanisms and limit physical exertion.

While localized measures, such as low-emission zones, have proven effective in reducing health risks, the global scope of air pollution highlights the need for comprehensive and collaborative solutions. Researcher Hannah Klauber, who studied the impacts of air quality in Germany, emphasizes that air pollution's adverse effects are universal, regardless of geography. This underscores the necessity of widespread action to address air quality and safeguard public health globally.

By Nazrin Sadigova