As Diwali approaches, a toxic haze settles over northern India. This year, ahead of the festival, which will be celebrated on October 31, Delhi’s air has already exceeded the safe limit prescribed by the World Health Organization (WHO) 10 times.

Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) was 356 on Sunday evening, according to the Central Pollution Control Board. An AQI between 201 and 300 is considered “weak”, between 301 and 400 as “very weak”, and between 401 and 500 as “severe”. The index will inevitably deteriorate in the coming days.

STUBBLING, FALLS AND LUNG DISEASES

The months of October and November witness air pollution from several sources. Stubble burning in Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh contributes significantly to air pollution with firecrackers only exacerbates the situation.

Stubble burning occurs when crop remains are set on fire after harvesting grains like wheat and rice. This is a common practice in places where farmers use combined harvesting methods.

Every year, cases of stubble burning are reported even though the practice is illegal in India. This practice releases gaseous pollutants such as carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx) and methane (CH4) as well as particles (PM10 and PM2.5) causing serious damage to human health and the environment.

According to a 2020 study published in Environmental Advancesburning of 63 million tonnes (Mt) of crop residue discharge:

3.4 million tonnes of carbon monoxide (CO) – a colorless gas that can be harmful to human health, 0.1 million tonnes of nitrogen oxides (NOx) – gases that contribute to smog and respiratory problems, 91 million tons of carbon dioxide – a major greenhouse gas causing climate change, 0.6 million tons of methane – a powerful greenhouse gas with a significant impact on global warming – and 1.2 million tonnes of particulate matter (PM) – tiny particles that can enter the lungs and cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems.

Another study published in Sustainable cities and society said that while many firecrackers release toxic gases into the atmosphere, some are even milder than others.

These harmful chemical compounds include barium nitrate, potassium chlorate, nitrate, perchlorate, sodium oxalate, strontium nitrate, metals like aluminum, iron oxides and manganese, metalloids and non-metals such as sulfur in the ambient atmosphere.

On the other hand, flying firecrackers release highly toxic and volatile compounds like polychlorinated dibenzodioxins and dibenzofurans into the lower troposphere, which can persist near the ground, increasing exposure risks for nearby people.

Air pollution impacts health in many ways, from irritating the skin and eyes to triggering serious illnesses such as neurological, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.

It is linked to asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, reduced lung capacity, emphysema (a lung disease) and even cancer. Prolonged exposure to high pollution levels also increases mortality rates.

AIR POLLUTION AND A COCKTAIL OF PATHOGENS

Covid-19 has become a major threat to society after its devastating effects since 2020. While studies have shown how air pollution has worsened the infectivity and mortality of Covid-19, it has also led to the spread of viruses and bacteria which have increased cases of colds, COPD, tuberculosis and other respiratory diseases.

Dr Rahul Kendre, lung transplant doctor and interventional pulmonologist at DPU Super Specialty Hospital, Pimpri, said people already suffering from respiratory disorders like asthma, bronchitis and COPD may witness an increase in symptoms during Diwali.

“These pollutants exacerbate coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and even cause asthma. Inhaled pollutants can even cause irreversible lung damage. Those who do not suffer from any lung disease can also suffer from the effects of air pollution. air, including throat irritation and inability to fully inhale oxygen,” Dr. Kendre said.

A study indicated that particulate matter (PM) in the air not only carries specific bacterial groups depending on their source (such as dust and pollution), but also that environmental factors influence the types and behavior of these bacterial communities.

When inhaled, fine particles smaller than 2.5 microns (PM2.5 and ultrafine particles or UFP) can penetrate deep into the lungs.

This deep penetration creates an environment in which viruses can more easily establish themselves in the respiratory tract, increasing the risk of infections.

Due to this phenomenon, in October and November, doctors also see an increase in other respiratory diseases like chikungunya, dengue and typhoid.

WHAT PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE?

To prevent further rise in AQI, state governments banned firecrackers and encouraged the use of green crackers instead. Although not pollution-free, green crackers are designed to emit fewer pollutants and reduce noise levels.

Dr Murarji Ghadge, senior ENT surgeon and sleep disorders specialist, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, pointed out that indoor pollution caused by lighting candles and diyas is also harmful to the lungs. Instead, one should use electric diyas and LED candles as an eco-friendly option.

“Say no to crackers or switch to green crackers which emit 30-40% less harmful particles and gases into the air than normal crackers. One can use eco-friendly diyas as excessive light can also contribute to pollution,” said Dr. Sandeep. Nayar, Senior Director & HOD – Chest & Respiratory Diseases, BLK, MAX Super Specialty Hospital

Dr Nayar advised against smoking as the practice, coupled with air pollution, “will have the most serious impact on lung health”.

“Smoking, whether active or passive, should not be allowed at all,” he said.

Dr Ghadge advised that instead of flying firecrackers, people can organize laser shows or light shows at the community level without air and noise pollution.

“It is necessary to drink plenty of water and eat foods rich in antioxidants to improve lung health and eliminate pollutants in a person’s body,” suggested Dr. Kendre.

Here are other ways to protect yourself:

Stay indoors during peak pollution periods, usually in the evening when firecrackers are set off. Children, the elderly and people with respiratory problems should avoid exposure to outdoors.

If you travel or spend a lot of time on the side of the road, you must fully protect yourself from pollution by wearing a mask, preferably N95. Discard the mask daily and do not reuse it. In addition to a mask, you can wear normal glasses to protect your eyes.

Patients with asthma and allergies should take precautionary injections/medications well in advance and keep emergency kits on hand.

Windows and doors should be kept closed as much as possible. Using air purifiers based on room occupancy is very helpful at this time, especially for those who spend most of their time indoors.

Breathing exercises and yoga are helpful in staying healthy. Avoid physical activities outdoors during Diwali as it can lead to lung damage if you inhale polluted air deeply, suggested Dr Kendre.

While Diwali is a time of celebration, it also provides an opportunity to prioritize our health and well-being. Experts said that by making small changes in the way we celebrate and taking proactive steps to protect our respiratory health, we could ensure that Diwali becomes a festival of health and well-being.