Bhubaneswar, 2nd Dec, 2023: On the eve of National Pollution Prevention Day, a critical health advisory has been released by leading medical professionals, at a press conference organized by the SwitchON Foundation with support from CARE Hospital addressing the escalating concerns surrounding air pollution and its detrimental effects on public health. The health advisory provides numerous ways in which citizens, Schools, Colleges, and Govt can prevent impact of air pollution, besides preventive measures and practices that should be adopted in everyday life to better prepare from the onslaught of polluted winter days.  

In light of the worsening air quality levels observed, the medical community emphasized the urgent need for heightened awareness and precautionary measures to safeguard the well-being of individuals. Several leading doctors of Bhubaneswar like Dr. Mamata Panda and Dr. Pragyan Kumar Routray from CARE Hospital, Dr. Arpita Priyadarshini from UPHC, Dr. Sanjib Kumar Mishra from Utkal Hospital attended the press conference.

Vinay Jaju, Managing Director, SwitchON Foundation said, “Health professionals are calling the air pollution a health emergency. This health advisory serves as a collective call to action, emphasizing the shared responsibility of individuals, communities, and policymakers in addressing the escalating challenges posed by air pollution.” He further added stating – “In November during Diwali, Bhubaneswar’s air quality index was very poor which is highly concerning looking at the onset of winters.”

Mr. Kunal Hota, CARE Hospital,  Manager Marcom stated, “Air Pollution is a threat to human health and we need to take urgent action for it. We are glad to work in collaboration with SwitchON Foundation and provide necessary resources for making people aware of the health implications of air pollution.”

Addressing the Press Conference Dr. Mamata Panda, Pediatrician, Care Hospital said, “The fine and ultrafine particulate matters may directly traverse through umbilical blood vessels and affect the fetus (in utero baby) and causes a systemic inflammation which can affect the organ developments as well as fetal immune system which can result in various problems in a child after birth like prematurity, LBW, IUGR, Birth defects, Cognitive problems etc. On this National Pollution Prevention Day, I urge everyone to be mindful of their environment. It’s our duty to bring and nurture a child to this beautiful world which should be Air pollution free.” 

The health consequences of air pollution vary depending on pollution levels and exposure duration. Vulnerability to these impacts differs among individuals due to demographic factors and existing health conditions.The Health Advisory released by the eminent doctors enumerated the role of citizens, Schools, Colleges and the Government for protection and  prevention of air pollution. 

Citizen’s role in Air Pollution 

Prevention:

• Refrain from burning wood or trash
• Opt for telecommuting, public transport, carpooling, bicycling, or walking 
• Waste Management and segregation
• Implement energy-saving practices at home and work

Protection:

• Utilize N95 masks during smoggy days 
• Choose a predominantly plant-based diet
• Use high-efficiency home air purifiers or indoor air-purifying plants 
• Avoid outdoor activities during high pollution levels

Institution’s / Office role in Air Pollution 

Prevention:

• Promote waste reduction and energy efficiency
• Adopt green infrastructure and technologies

Protection:

• Make workplace cycle friendly
• Limiting outdoor activities 

Government’s role in Air Pollution Mitigation strategies:

• Public information on air pollution levels and awareness
• Establish effective emergency response plans to deal with sudden spikes 
• Manage C&D Waste Properly

At the press conference, Bubaneswar’s air quality was shared which showed a surge in air pollution in Bhubaneswar in November, 2023. It was found that the air quality of Bhubaneswar consistently declined from “Moderate” to “Very Poor” over a five-day period, covering both pre and post-Diwali periods. On November 13th, Lingraj Mandir station hit an alarming AQI of 389, while Patia station reported 371, both signaling “Very Poor” air quality in Bhubaneswar. On Nov 13th after Diwali, Patia and Lingraj Mandir stations saw a 60.61% and 34.60% AQI surge. 

Dr. Sanjiv Kumar Mishra, Oncologist, Utkal Hospital said, “I have witnessed a concerning correlation between prolonged exposure to air pollution and an increased risk of certain cancers. The toxic elements in polluted air can trigger cellular changes, emphasizing the imperative for public health measures to mitigate this environmental risk.”

Dr. Arpita Priyadarshini, General Medicine, UPHC stated, “The value of AQI in the state falls under an unhealthy category for sensitive groups. An alarming level of suspended particulate matter is in the air which can lead to serious aggravation of heart and lung diseases in the vulnerable groups.”

Dr. Pragyan Kumar Routray, HOD, Critical Care, CARE Hospital said, “Air pollution is a major environmental health threat. Recent data released by the World Health Organization (WHO) show that air pollution has a vast and terrible impact on child health and survival.”

Health Advisory and PPT on Alarming Air Quality Trends in Mean AQI

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