The smog crisis from October to December is driven by many factors including crop burning, vehicular traffic and industrial emissions. This can be especially harmful for vulnerable populations which includes young children and people suffering from respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD or other chronic lung diseases. Children have developing lungs and hence are highly susceptible to the harmful effect of pollutants present in the air, which are not only in the acute stages when pollution increases but also in the long-term if pollution continues to increase persistently.
Traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) contributes to 13% of asthma cases in India, and it is definitely one of the major concerns. In populations where there is use of biomass fuels, indoor air pollution also becomes a major risk factor. Exposure to pollutants in smog can lead to exacerbations, reduced lung function, and it can also lead to hospitalization in children if an asthma flare-up occurs.
