Kolkata, Nov. 6 -- Rising air pollution ahead of winter, compounded by firecracker emissions during Diwali and Kali Puja, could aggravate respiratory problems, particularly among lung cancer patients, those with chronic respiratory diseases, children and the elderly, doctors have warned.
Even green crackers are far from harmless, even though they may release fewer pollutants than conventional ones. Doctors say that even reduced emissions can trigger asthma attacks and increase the risk of cardiovascular complications.
According to doctors, firecrackers release PM2.5 and PM10 particles, along with toxic gases such as nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide, which can cause irritation in the respiratory tract, triggering coughing, wheezing and breathlessness while aggravating existing health conditions in the long term.
"Lung cancer patients with coexisting chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are particularly vulnerable because their lung function is already compromised. While long-term exposure to air pollution increases lung-cancer risk, even a brief pollution spike can worsen symptoms in these patients," said Dr Sayoni Bhanja, a consultant medical oncologist at HCG Cancer Centre here.
While post-monsoon conditions begin trapping particulate matter closer to the ground, worsening air quality, pollution levels see a sharp spike in Kolkata on the night of Kali Puja and Diwali when bursting firecrackers are abound.
Last year, the air quality index (AQI) at Victoria Memorial in the heart of Kolkata rose to 186, while it was 364 at Belur in Howrah. In Kolkata's Ballygunge, the AQI touched 173, and in Jadavpur it was 169 at 10 pm. In Howrah's Padmapukur and Ghusuri, the air quality was 361 and 252, respectively.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), an AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.
Dr Rupali Basu of HCG Cancer Hospitals said even healthy people can be affected by such pollution, while those with existing respiratory problems face a greater risk.
"Vulnerable patients should avoid areas with higher air pollution. A well-fitting N95 face mask can reduce particle exposure outdoors, while a HEPA air purifier can help indoors. Protecting their breathing should be part of our celebrations," she said.
Dr Arup Halder, a consultant pulmonologist at C K Birla Hospitals, pointed out that air pollution in Bengal generally begins to build up from October.
"Colder air, combined with reduced air currents and air mass movement, has a greater tendency to hold a higher concentration of pollutants close to the ground," he told PTI.
The doctor advised people, particularly children and the elderly, to reduce going outdoors once AQI crosses 100. Outdoor activity should be restricted when the AQI is between 301 and 400, he said.
"For asthma and COPD patients, even routine activities such as morning walks and outdoor exercise may have to be avoided during high-pollution spells. Those who cannot stay indoors should wear a well-fitting N95 mask and strictly continue with their prescribed medication, he said.
Dr Pratik Biswas said that fine particulates, especially PM 2.5 with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or less, about the width of a human hair, can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, posing significant health risks.
The consultant pulmonologist at Neotia Mediplus said, "Air pollution is not merely an environmental concern; it is a significant respiratory health risk. Fine particulate matter such as PM2.5 can penetrate deep into the lungs, trigger inflammation and aggravate conditions such as asthma and COPD."
According to a 2024 study, the Indo-Gangetic Plains remain the most polluted region, with significant emissions from residential cooking and heating (especially in winter), power plants, brick kilns (driven by construction demand), waste burning, dust and vehicular movement for passengers and freight.
Dr Lokesh Pandey, a consultant paediatrician at Neotia Bhagirathi Woman and Child Care Centre, said parents should not dismiss repeated coughing and wheezing in children as ordinary seasonal complaints. They need special protection during this period, he said.
He advised parents to keep children away from firecracker smoke and restrict outdoor play when pollution levels are high.
The celebrations can be equally difficult for pregnant women and older people, particularly those with existing heart or respiratory conditions, said Dr MS Purkait, Medical Superintendent, Techno India DAMA Hospital.
The doctor also drew attention to the noise from firecrackers, saying loud explosions can cause hearing damage, disturb sleep and trigger anxiety. Infants, elderly people and noise-sensitive animals, including pets, should be kept away from areas where crackers are being burst, he said.
Dr Joydeep Ghosh, a consultant in internal medicine at Fortis Hospital, said senior citizens, particularly those with respiratory and heart conditions, should avoid exposure to firecracker smoke and noisy surroundings. Consultant paediatrician at the hospital, Dr Ritika Ghosh Dastidar, urged parents to keep children away from fireworks and ensure adult supervision during celebrations.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.