Pollution Claims Skyrocket: Health Costs Soar

Health insurance claims associated with pollution have quadrupled over the last three years, according to recent data. Cardiovascular conditions represent 43.5% of these claims, followed by other respiratory infections at 35%, highlighting a significant health toll from poor air quality. The average claim amount has risen to ₹62,662, indicating increased healthcare expenses.

Analysis reveals that working professionals aged 31 to 55 years constitute the largest group filing these claims, comprising 59% of the total. Senior citizens aged 55 and above represent an additional 31%. This trend is not confined to major metropolitan areas; Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities account for 27% each of these claims.

Consumers in highly polluted cities are increasingly opting for higher health insurance coverage, with 48% seeking greater sum insured amounts. This reflects a growing awareness of the need for comprehensive financial protection against potential medical costs. The six months leading into FY26 saw nearly 56% of annual claims, pointing to a seasonal concentration of these health issues.