Analysis of the impact of increased atmospheric pollution during Deepavali on respiratory health
“Deepavali pollution spike: How does it affect lung function and respiratory health?”
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Recent reports published in November 2026 detail how the temporary increase in the concentration of atmospheric pollutants during the Deepavali festivities affects lung function. Health and environmental authorities remind the public that exposure to smoke and particulate matter can trigger adverse respiratory symptoms in the population.
Smoke derived from fireworks and associated environmental conditions generate high peaks in the Air Quality Index (AQI). Medical experts point out that a few hours of exposure to these levels can cause coughing, wheezing, and respiratory difficulty, with a special incidence in individuals previously diagnosed with asthma or other chronic pathologies.
However, adverse effects are not exclusively limited to vulnerable sectors of the population. High concentrations of fine particles, such as PM2.5 and PM10, as well as irritating gases such as nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide, have the capacity to inflame the airways in any exposed individual.
To quantify these risks, India's Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) employs an AQI calculation system based on eight major pollutant parameters, offering a standardized metric to assess ambient pollution levels and their potential health impacts.
- Particulate matter pollution during Deepavali aggravates pre-existing respiratory conditions.
- Acute exposure to pyrotechnic smoke can cause symptoms such as coughing and difficulty breathing within a few hours.
- The Air Quality Index (AQI) integrates measurements of eight major pollutants, including PM2.5 and PM10.
- The CPCB is the agency responsible for supervising and calculating these official indices in India.
Corroborates: Deepavali pollution spike: How does it affect lung function and respiratory health?