As AQI Worsens In Delhi, Here's How It Can Harm Pregnant Women

The air quality in several regions of Delhi-NCR crossed over 481 on November 18, plunging into the 'severe plus' category, according to the India Meteorological Department. As a thick blanket of smog encased the region, visibility in some areas like Palam plummeted to 150 metres at 5 am. Many schools and colleges have turned to online mode as Chief Minister Atishi ordered the implementation of Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan - outlining an 8-point action plan aimed at tackling the severe pollution crisis. 

Citizen Concerns

The NCR administration has encouraged workplaces to limit attendance to 50%, with the rest working from home. Citizens, especially vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with cardiovascular or respiratory disorders have been advised to remain indoors.

All of North India has been plunged into a medical emergency as stubble burning continues unchecked across the country. All cities across the country - in UP, Bihar, Rajasthan, Haryana, MP and Delhi - are reeling under severe levels of pollution.

And yet despite rising severity… https://t.co/LPVufdKHQI

— Atishi (@AtishiAAP) November 18, 2024

Woke up with a itchy, painful throat. I am having a wet cough today. Even 2 air purifiers are not making the #AQI breathable indoors. Fed up of shameful governments in Delhi NCR not making #pollution a priority. Children are breathing in gas chamber. This is 2024. #Delhi pic.twitter.com/SChEEXpBp5

— Milan Sharma (@Milan_reports) November 17, 2024

Coming back to Delhi from Wayanad where the air is beautiful and the AQI is 35, was like entering a gas chamber. The blanket of smog is even more shocking when seen from the air.

Delhi’s pollution gets worse every year. We really should put our heads together and find a solution… pic.twitter.com/dYMtjaVIGB

— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) November 14, 2024

Concern Among Pregnant Women

There is growing concern among medical experts about the severe implications of pollution, especially for vulnerable groups like babies and pregnant women. According to experts, the repercussions of pollution extend far beyond discomfort, shedding light on the urgency of addressing this critical issue.

1. Fetal Development

Pregnant women exposed to high levels of pollution are at risk of compromising their unborn child's development. Airborne pollutants can hinder fetal growth, leading to low birth weight and preterm births, which can have long-term health consequences for the infant.

Dr Archana Dhawan Bajaj, Gynaecologist, Obstetrician and IVF Expert, told Financial Express, "Pollutants can penetrate the placenta and harm the growing fetus, causing conditions including preeclampsia, low birth weight, intrauterine growth restriction, as well as have long term effects on neuronal and behavioural development in adult life."

2. Respiratory Diseases

The increased exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other pollutants can elevate the risk of respiratory issues in pregnant women. Conditions such as asthma and bronchitis can worsen, making breathing a struggle, and impacting both the mother and baby's health.

3. Allergies and Immunological Impact

Dr Dhiren Gupta, paediatrician, told Mint that exposure to pollution during pregnancy can trigger allergic responses in the unborn child. The infant is more likely to develop allergies later in life, as their immune system is influenced by the polluted environment they were exposed to during gestation.

 Dr Gupta said, "Once you are exposed in pregnancy, there is a very high chance that an unborn newborn will be allergic later on."

4. Premature Births

One of the most concerning effects of pollution is its association with premature births. Babies born before completing their full term can face numerous health challenges and complications, making it crucial to combat pollution to ensure the well-being of both mother and child.

5. Developmental Delays

Exposure to pollutants like heavy metals and chemicals can result in developmental delays in children. These delays can manifest in various forms, including cognitive and motor skill impairments, affecting the child's quality of life.

As Delhi grapples with worsening air quality, the impact on pregnant women and their infants cannot be understated. It is imperative to raise awareness, implement stricter environmental regulations, and take individual and collective actions to combat pollution. The health of our future generations depends on the actions we take today.