People aged 60 years and above should not go for morning walk in the stifling air of Delhi

The level of air pollution in the entire NCR, including the country's capital Delhi, has reached dangerous levels, which is seriously affecting the health of not only the common citizens but also the elderly.

The level of air pollution in the entire NCR, including the country's capital Delhi, has reached dangerous levels, which is seriously affecting the health of not only the common man but also the elderly. In such a situation, Supreme Court Chief Justice DY Chandrachud admitted on Thursday that he has stopped his morning walk due to air pollution. His doctor has advised him not to go out due to air pollution, so that the risk of respiratory diseases can be reduced.

Dr. Ashish Arora, Senior Consultant and Head of Pulmonology and Critical Care at Epitome Hospital (New Delhi) said that air pollution is more dangerous for older citizens because their immune system weakens with age, making them more susceptible to respiratory infections and other diseases. Harmful particles found in pollution such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ozone (O3) can further weaken their immune system, increasing the risk of diseases like pneumonia and bronchitis.

In addition, older citizens are already more likely to have lung-related diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. Air pollution can worsen the symptoms of these diseases, increasing the risk of hospitalization. Microparticles found in pollution cause inflammation in the respiratory tract, affect lung function and can reduce the supply of oxygen to vital organs of the body.

Heart disease risk

Long-term exposure to air pollution can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, irregular heartbeat and heart failure, especially for the elderly and people with pre-existing health conditions. Long-term exposure also increases the risk of death. Research has found that air pollution may promote atherosclerosis (plaque build-up in the arteries), which increases the risk of heart disease.

Decrease in cognitive decline

In addition, recent studies have indicated that air pollution can also cause cognitive decline in the elderly, such as neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The government needs to take strict measures to protect the health of the elderly. Citizens should also follow these rules. Senior citizens are advised to stay indoors during peak pollution hours and promote physical activity in a clean environment.