Health Hazard: Toxic Air Drives Relocation Plans For Delhi & Mumbai Residents, Says Study

A new study from healthcare provider Pristyn Care found that nearly 60% of people in Delhi and Mumbai are considering relocating because of worsening air quality and pollution. It added that both cities deal with high pollution every year, and there’s still no permanent solution for this recurring problem.

The study included 4000 people from Delhi, Mumbai and nearby areas.

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Air pollution can make it less desirable to live in urban areas, as it can affect the overall quality of life. Residents may experience respiratory problems, reduced outdoor activities, and increased anxiety due to poor air quality. This can lead to a decrease in demand for housing and commercial spaces in polluted areas.

According to the study, a staggering 9 in 10 respondents report experiencing the most common symptoms of the deteriorating Air Quality Index (AQI). These include persistent coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, sore throat, and watery or itchy eyes. These findings highlight the profound impact of declining air quality on the well-being of individuals especially during the winter season.

In fact, 40% of respondents have also observed a deterioration in pre-existing respiratory issues such as asthma or bronchitis among their loved ones during the winter season.

The study also revealed that 4 in 10 residents in Delhi and Mumbai seek medical attention for health issues related to air pollution every year or at least every few years.

When questioned about adjusting their lifestyle to deal with air pollution, 35% mentioned they stopped outdoor activities such as exercising and running, while 30% began wearing masks outdoors.

While air purifiers can improve indoor air quality by eliminating or reducing pollutants and allergens, a mere 27% of respondents in Delhi and Mumbai employ them.

Surprisingly, 43% still have this misconception that these devices reduce immunity. Nonetheless, there is notable awareness among people regarding the adverse effects of air pollution, with over half recognising its detrimental impact on overall health.

Additionally, 64% are conscious of the long-term health risks associated with poor air quality.