How air pollution is increasing health and pregnancy risks for women in India
Experts warn that India’s worsening air pollution levels are raising serious health risks for pregnant women and their unborn babies. Pollution exposure during pregnancy may lead to respiratory problems, pre-term birth and developmental issues in infants.
As air quality worsens across many parts of India, medical experts are now sounding the alarm over its impact on pregnant women and unborn children. Pollutants such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5), toxic gases and smog are linked to respiratory stress in expectant mothers. Chronic exposure to polluted air raises the chances of breathing difficulties, asthma and other lung-related illnesses during pregnancy.
Doctors caution that air pollution does more than affect maternal health. Studies suggest that exposure during pregnancy can result in pre-term birth, low birth weight babies and may even increase the risk of congenital disabilities. Infants exposed in utero to high levels of pollution may face long-term developmental challenges including respiratory issues and impaired growth.
Experts recommend that pregnant women limit outdoor time on days when air quality is poor. Using air purifiers indoors, wearing protective masks whenever stepping out and keeping windows closed during high smog days can help reduce exposure. Regular prenatal check-ups and early detection of complications are advised if pollution levels remain high.
Beyond individual precautions, the issue calls for stronger policies and community action to curb pollution sources. Improved regulation of emissions stricter monitoring of air quality and better public awareness efforts are crucial to protect maternal and infant health on a larger scale.
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