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Delhi Smog Fuels Lung Disease Crisis
13 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Pollution surge doubles clinic visits for lung patients.
- Doctors note India's high burden of lung diseases.
- New study to link air pollution and lung conditions.
The onset of winter smog in Delhi has led to a significant surge in patients visiting the Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) clinic at AIIMS. Clinics report nearly double their usual patient numbers, with many individuals experiencing exacerbated symptoms like persistent coughs and difficulty breathing. These patients often have pre-existing chronic lung conditions that are severely aggravated by air pollution.
Doctors highlight that while ILDs have varied causes, air pollution acts as a common trigger for flare-ups, increasing susceptibility to infections. They suggest India may face a disproportionately high burden of these diseases, though precise data linking prevalence to pollution exposure is still being gathered. AIIMS is launching a new study to quantify this relationship.
Exacerbations of ILDs, often life-threatening with high mortality rates, become particularly difficult to manage during smog spells. Patients may require intensive medical support, and recovery is often incomplete, leaving them with compromised health. Experts advise ILD patients to minimize exposure to outdoor air and potential infections.
