As Mumbai observes World Lung Day, pulmonologists are raising concerns over the impact of air pollution, particularly PM2.5, on respiratory health. On September 23, one CAMS-based assessment recorded Mumbai’s average PM2.5 level at 15.4 µg/m³. However, pollution levels can vary across the city and throughout the day.
Repeated exposure to PM2.5 can trigger inflammation and increase the risk of asthma, COPD and other lung conditions. Persistent cough, breathlessness, wheezing or reduced exercise tolerance should therefore not be ignored.
Mumbai’s Respiratory Health Burden
BMC data obtained through RTI and reported for 2016–2021 recorded 14,396 COPD deaths and 7,069 asthma deaths in Mumbai, along with 1,220 deaths from bronchitis. M-East ward recorded 675 COPD deaths, while K-East reported 971.
As per the press release issued for World Lung Day, experts stressed that children, older adults and people with existing respiratory conditions face particular risks.
Experts Call for Prevention
Dr. Sangita Checker, Consultant Pulmonologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, urged people to take persistent respiratory symptoms seriously and focus on prevention and early detection. Dr. Parthiv Shah, Pulmonologist at Apex Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, also highlighted traffic emissions, dust, indoor pollutants and smoking as major concerns.
Experts recommend checking air-quality levels, limiting exposure to polluted areas, using protective masks when appropriate, maintaining indoor ventilation and avoiding smoking and second-hand smoke. Regular physical activity and timely vaccination can also support lung health.