Diwali Celebrations Take a Toll on Health in Kolkata

As the city of Kolkata basks in the celebratory spirit of Diwali, the joyous moments have been marred by a surge in illnesses linked to air pollution. Since Monday evening, hospitals in the city have received a significant number of patients complaining of respiratory issues, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). The pollution levels in the city have skyrocketed due to continuous cracker bursting, exacerbating the situation. Pulmonologists have attributed the rise in illnesses to the "inverse temperature effect" triggered by pollution, which has further worsened the condition.

Key Takeaways:

• Over 100 patients have been admitted to hospitals in Kolkata, complaining of respiratory issues such as asthma, COPD, and RSV, due to air pollution.
• Pollution levels in the city have increased by 400% since Monday evening, with particulate matter and toxic gases posing a significant threat to public health.
• Pulmonologists have warned that individuals with pre-existing heart or lung conditions are at a higher risk of developing severe health complications due to exposure to firecracker smoke.
• Experts recommend that patients with chronic respiratory diseases such as COPD and asthma use masks when going outside, avoid using firecrackers, and use inhalers as needed.
• The city's hospitals are struggling to cope with the surge in admissions, with some experiencing a 200% increase in patients since Monday evening.
• Arup Halder, a pulmonologist at CMRI Hospital, noted that the transition from monsoon to winter, coinciding with Diwali, is particularly challenging for patients with chronic respiratory diseases.
• Dhiman Kahali, a cardiologist at BM Birla Heart Hospital, warned that inhalation of smoke and fine particulate matter from firecrackers can trigger angina, arrhythmia, or even heart attacks in vulnerable individuals.

Statistics:

• 400% increase in pollution levels in Kolkata since Monday evening
• 100+ patients admitted to hospitals in Kolkata with respiratory issues
• 200% increase in admissions in some hospitals since Monday evening
• 400 pm2.5 (micrograms per cubic meter) particulate matter recorded in Kolkata air
• 2000µg/m3 (micrograms per cubic meter) of fine particulate matter recorded in Kolkata air

Sources:

• Times of India