INDIA: Air pollution is the topmost cause for the rising burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) like hypertension, diabetes, stroke, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in India, says a recent health report by ASSOCHAM.
The report said 76 percent of the population with NCDs is exposed to high air pollution. It also suggests that nearly 29 per cent of the population is exposed to high levels of household pollution, while 20 per cent is exposed to air pollution at the workplace.
According to the report, after pollution, low physical activity and high stress levels are the most prevalent factors, while alcohol consumption, smoking and excessive intake of sugary drinks and red meat are the least prevalent factors leading to NCDs.
The recent COVID onslaught and the higher mortality rate among patients with NCDs (comorbidities) have brought the focus back on preventive healthcare.
Multiple studies have established a direct link between air pollution and premature birth. According to reports, more than three million babies are born prematurely every year due to air pollution. The rising burden of NCDs globally has left health experts worried. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the annual deaths caused by NCDs will increase to 55 million by 2030, if timely preventive interventions are not made.
– THE STATESMAN