As a consultant pediatrician, I was forced to alert on urgent issues that have been overlooked for too long: the devastating effect of Hyderabad air pollution on newborns in our city. Recent data show an unsettling trend – a significant increase in infants with underweight and asthma, directly related to the toxic air they breathe from birth.
These numbers are shocking. According to our study, the percentage of underweight babies born in Hyderabad has increased by 15% over the past five years. Similarly, the incidence of infant asthma increased by 20% during the same period. These statistics are more than just numbers. They represent the fragile lives of the most vulnerable citizens of our city.
The main culprit behind this trend is the poor air quality in Hyderabad. The city’s rapid industrialization, growing auto population, and inadequate waste management have created toxic cocktails of pollutants. These harmful particles, including PM2.5, PM10 and nitrogen dioxide, are known to cause respiratory distress, low birth weight and a range of other health problems.
As pediatricians, we have witnessed first-hand the devastating consequences of air pollution for young patients. Infants are particularly susceptible to effects because their lungs are still developing and their immune system is weak. Exposure to polluted air can lead to lifelong health problems, including chronic respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and even neurological damage.
This situation requires urgent attention from our decision makers, civic authorities and citizens. We need a multi-pronged approach to dealing with this crisis:
1. Implement strict emission regulations for industries and vehicles.
2. Strengthen public transportation and promote environmentally friendly alternatives.
3. Add green coverings and create more public spaces.
4. Develop and implement waste management policies.
As a community, we must unite to protect the health and well-being of our children. The future of Hyderabad babies depends on our collective action. We owe them to them to make sure they are born breathing clean air, not smoking.
Kamineni Hospitals, Dr. Kanchan S Channawar, consultant pediatrician and pediatric intensive care physician at LB Nagar (arrange photos)
