Effects of Air Pollution on the Development of Respiratory Diseases among Residents in New Delhi, India

Abstract

Air pollution is the contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere. The industrialization of countries has increased the emission to the atmosphere that has significantly oplurid the air. Exposure to high levels of air pollution can cause a variety of adverse health outcomes. Hence, the study sought to examine the effects of air pollution on the development of respiratory diseases among residents in New Delhi, India. The study adopted the descriptive research design. The targeted population included the residents of New Delhi. The key respondents included health practitioners. The collection of the data was done using the questionnaires. The rationale for picking the health practitioners to respond to the research instruments is because they were more involved in the treatment and were more informed about the cases that have been reported from the residents due to the air pollution. The study found that air pollution positively influences the development of respiratory diseases. Air pollution can worsen lung function in people with breathing problems and decrease lung function in those with healthy lungs. Exposure to air pollution puts you at risk for lung cancer, heart attacks, stroke and, in extreme cases, premature death. The study concluded that air pollution is a danger to lung health, particularly for children, the elderly, people who work or spend time outdoors and people with heart or lung disease. The study recommended strict measures/initiatives should be taken by the government, industry and the private sector to reduce the burden of air pollution. It is further recommended that individuals should use clean fuels. Likewise, air cleansers that can enhance the air quality are suggested. Industrialization, urbanization, population growth and demand for transportation, mainly in the cities, need to be managed. Keywords: Air Pollution, Respiratory Health Complications, New Delhi, India