'It's like smoking 8 to 10 cigarettes every day': Dr. Guleria on breathing polluted air

In an interview on India's air pollution crisis, former AIIMS Director Dr. Randeep Guleria called the situation a 'silent killer,' referencing a global report that attributed 8.1 million deaths to air pollution in 2021. Dr. Guleria stated that breathing polluted air over many years is akin to 'smoking eight to 10 cigarettes every day.' He explained that fine particulate matter can enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of heart attacks, stroke, dementia, and certain cancers. He noted that temporary measures like cloud seeding have failed in Delhi and stressed the need for long-term sustainable solutions, citing the successful implementation of strict legislation in Beijing. Dr. Guleria advised caution for children and the elderly, suggesting they avoid outdoor activities during peak pollution hours.