5 in 10 People Face ENT Issues Amid Severe Pollution: Survey
New Delhi: A recent survey by healthcare provider Pristyn Care has shed light on the effects of pollution on eye and ENT (ear, nose, and throat) health. Conducted across cities like Delhi, Meerut, Faridabad, Noida, Ghaziabad, Rohtak, Chandigarh, and Kanpur, the survey gathered responses from 56,176 individuals. It revealed that 41% experienced a rise in eye-related health issues during high pollution periods, while 55% reported similar problems affecting their ears, nose, or throat.
Among eye-related issues, 38% reported symptoms such as dry eyes, irritation, and inflammation, with redness and itching being particularly common during pollution surges. Similarly, ENT problems like sore throats, nasal irritation, and ear discomfort were frequently reported, raising concerns about potential long-term health impacts. However, the survey found that 68% of respondents did not seek medical advice for these pollution-linked health issues.
Dr. Dhirendra Singh, ENT Surgeon at Pristyn Care, highlighted the particular vulnerability of children to poor air quality. He explained that prolonged exposure to polluted air can irritate the mucous membranes in the nose and ears, potentially leading to chronic conditions. Dr. Singh emphasized the importance of reducing outdoor exposure, wearing masks, staying hydrated, and using protective eyewear to mitigate these effects.
Dr. Vaibhav Kapoor, Co-founder of Pristyn Care, expressed concern over the low prioritization of pollution's health impact among the public. He stressed the need for preventive measures, noting that individuals should take proactive steps to protect their eye and ENT health. Dr. Kapoor added that healthcare providers are committed to raising awareness on this issue.
The survey also revealed gaps in preventive practices. While 35% of respondents reported using protective eyewear or sunglasses, nearly 40% admitted to taking no specific precautions for ENT issues during high pollution days. Despite this, over half expressed concern about the long-term effects of pollution on their eye and ENT health.
As air quality typically worsens during winter, the findings underscore the importance of limiting outdoor exposure, using masks and protective eyewear, and consulting healthcare professionals for persistent symptoms.
Nidhi Srivastava is a dietician. She holds a post-graduate degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from MRIIRS. With a profound passion for utilizing nutrition and lifestyle modifications to manage diseases, she is dedicated to advancing the field through rigorous research and fact-checking. Her expertise lies in evidence-based practice, ensuring the highest standards of dietary health and wellness.