Alarming Pollution Levels Lead To Surge In Eye And ENT Health Issues: Survey

A recent survey conducted by Pristyn Care has unveiled concerning findings about the impact of severe pollution on eye, ear, nose, and throat (ENT) health. The survey, which gathered responses from 56,176 individuals across cities such as Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Chandigarh, and Kanpur, revealed that a staggering 41per cent reported increased eye-related health issues, while 55per cent experienced ENT problems during high pollution periods.

The study sheds light on the growing burden of pollution-related health concerns, with 38 per cent of respondents reporting symptoms like dry eyes, irritation, and inflammation during the months of poor air quality. Redness and itching were also highlighted as prevalent issues, signalling a significant strain on ocular health. ENT-related discomforts, including sore throats, nasal irritation, and ear pain, were widely reported, underscoring the severe toll pollution takes on overall health and well-being.

Lack of Preventive Measures

Despite these alarming statistics, the survey revealed a concerning trend: 68 per cent of respondents admitted they do not seek medical consultation for pollution-linked ENT issues. Furthermore, only 35 per cent take protective measures like wearing eyewear or sunglasses, while nearly 40 per cent admitted to neglecting any specific precautions for ENT-related health concerns.

Dr. Dhirendra Singh, an ENT surgeon at Pristyn Care, warned about the long-term consequences of ignoring pollution-related health issues, especially for children. “Children's developing respiratory organs and systems are particularly vulnerable to prolonged exposure to polluted air. Chronic conditions such as nasal irritation and ear discomfort could become more common over time if preventive measures are not prioritised,” he stated. He also advised reducing outdoor activities, wearing masks, and staying hydrated to mitigate the adverse effects of pollution.

Healthcare Providers Sound the Alarm

Dr. Vaibhav Kapoor, co-founder of Pristyn Care, expressed concern over the lack of public awareness regarding the health impact of pollution. “The increase in eye and ENT-related health issues highlights the urgent need for preventive measures. It is shocking to find how lightly pollution and its detrimental impact on health are taken,” he remarked. Dr. Kapoor also reiterated the need for proactive steps to safeguard health, especially during the winter months when air quality significantly deteriorates.

Pristyn Care’s survey also highlighted growing apprehension about the long-term effects of pollution, with over half of the respondents expressing concern about potential chronic conditions stemming from exposure. However, the lack of widespread action underscores the need for stronger public health campaigns and individual responsibility to tackle this pressing issue.

Call for Greater Awareness

The findings come as a wake-up call for individuals to adopt better preventive practices, including wearing masks and protective eyewear, limiting outdoor exposure, and consulting medical professionals when symptoms persist. With pollution levels showing no immediate signs of improvement, healthcare providers like Pristyn Care are stepping up to raise awareness and encourage individuals to prioritise their health.