As winter approaches, Delhi’s notorious smog season returns, triggering a spike in pollution-related health issues across the city. At the forefront of this crisis is the Air Pollution OPD at Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital, India’s first dedicated outpatient department for pollution-related diseases, which has seen a significant rise in patient numbers since reopening on October 21, all caused by the ongoing Delhi air pollution crisis.

Rising Health Issues Amidst Delhi’s Smog Season

The impact of Delhi’s air quality crisis on its residents is visible in the stories of patients like Huma and her children, who live in Yamuna Vihar. Every year, as pollution levels rise, they experience a range of respiratory and allergic symptoms, from coughing and chest pain to eye irritation. Roshan Lal, a 70-year-old asthma patient from Alipur, experiences aggravated symptoms like shortness of breath and excessive mucus, a situation shared by many with pre-existing conditions who are finding it increasingly challenging to cope with the city’s toxic air.

In response to such cases, RML’s Air Pollution OPD, which operates every Monday from 2 pm to 4 pm, offers comprehensive care from a team of specialists, including ENT and respiratory experts, dermatologists, and psychiatrists. According to Dr. Ajay Shukla, Medical Superintendent at RML, the goal of the OPD is to create awareness about air pollution’s effects, which vary widely across individuals. While some experience immediate symptoms, others face delayed or long-term health impacts.

The Growing Role of RML’s Air Pollution OPD

Launched in November last year during the Diwali season, RML’s Air Pollution OPD has become a vital resource for those struggling with pollution-related health issues. Initially started on a trial basis, the OPD has expanded this year to operate year-round. Dr. Amit Suri, a respiratory disease specialist and OPD in charge, emphasized the importance of keeping the OPD open throughout the year, as air pollution remains a persistent issue in Delhi.

The OPD has seen a significant increase in patients, with people coming in for a wide range of symptoms, such as respiratory distress, throat irritation, and skin problems. For individuals with existing respiratory conditions, the worsening air quality can lead to severe complications, underscoring the need for specialized healthcare support. Dr. Shukla recommends that vulnerable groups, especially children and the elderly, limit outdoor activities, especially during the early mornings and evenings when pollution levels are at their peak.

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Expert Advice on Minimizing Health Risks

Dr. Suri and Dr. Shukla offer crucial tips to minimize exposure to Delhi’s polluted air:

1. Stay Indoors During High Pollution Hours: Air quality tends to be worse before sunrise and after sunset, so residents should avoid outdoor activities during these times.
2. Limit Physical Activity: Exercise increases lung intake, which can lead to greater exposure to polluted air. Strenuous outdoor activities should be avoided until air quality improves.
3. Use Masks and Air Purifiers: High-quality masks can provide some protection when outdoor exposure is unavoidable, and air purifiers can improve indoor air quality.

Also Read: Living In A Pollution-Free Environment Is A Fundamental Right: Supreme Court

Broader Health Implications of Air Pollution

Beyond physical health, Delhi’s pollution crisis has mental health implications as well. Studies have linked air pollution to psychiatric issues, including increased anxiety and depression. Dr. Shukla highlights that limiting exposure to polluted air may also help mitigate these mental health risks.

The Delhi air pollution crisis poses a severe threat to public health, with vulnerable groups facing heightened risks. The rise in patient visits to RML’s Air Pollution OPD reflects the urgent need for accessible, specialized healthcare to address pollution-induced health issues. As awareness grows, the emphasis must be on proactive measures—both individual and systemic—to safeguard public health. Tackling the Delhi air pollution crisis requires a combined effort from government agencies, healthcare providers, and the public to reduce exposure and advocate for sustainable change.

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