34.8% of Delhiites tested found with impaired lungs : MAMC
New Delhi: Over 34 per cent of the people who underwent lung test as part of a drive by the Delhi government were found to have impaired lung function.
The drive was carried out by the Health Department of Delhi government in collaboration with Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), across the national capital simultaneously with the odd-even scheme.
Of the total 264 tested people, 92 were found to have poor lung functions.
"Around 34.8 percent of the total 264 people who took the test were found to have impaired lung functions. Even, yesterday, 91 people were tested and 25 were found to have poor lung function.
"The trend is obviously a matter of concern and a strong indicator that the pollution levels have to be brought down," said Dr Suneela Garg, Director and professor of community medicine at MAMC.
As part of the drive, testing units have been put up at ten key locations-- Rajiv Chowk metro station, ITO, Nehru Place market, Jama Masjid area, Vikas Marg, ISBT, Anand Vihar, Kashmere Gate, Kamla Nagar market near KMC gate, Delhi Haat and Shadipur Depot.
"We are doing spirometry tests, which is showing a rate of lung function between 40 and 50 per cent. We first take consent of people, then give them an information sheet. We ask for their weight, height and also take into account the body mass index. We also give them a demo to encourage them to take the test," Garg said.
Spirometry measures the amount (volume) or speed (flow) of air that can be inhaled and exhaled. For this test, one has to breathe into a mouthpiece attached to the device.
The findings of the study, which is undertaken to understand the impact of air pollution on the health and come up with guidelines on action required, will be compiled and the Health department will come out with a detailed report after January 15.
The drive was carried out by the Health Department of Delhi government in collaboration with Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), across the national capital simultaneously with the odd-even scheme.
Of the total 264 tested people, 92 were found to have poor lung functions.
"Around 34.8 percent of the total 264 people who took the test were found to have impaired lung functions. Even, yesterday, 91 people were tested and 25 were found to have poor lung function.
"The trend is obviously a matter of concern and a strong indicator that the pollution levels have to be brought down," said Dr Suneela Garg, Director and professor of community medicine at MAMC.
As part of the drive, testing units have been put up at ten key locations-- Rajiv Chowk metro station, ITO, Nehru Place market, Jama Masjid area, Vikas Marg, ISBT, Anand Vihar, Kashmere Gate, Kamla Nagar market near KMC gate, Delhi Haat and Shadipur Depot.
"We are doing spirometry tests, which is showing a rate of lung function between 40 and 50 per cent. We first take consent of people, then give them an information sheet. We ask for their weight, height and also take into account the body mass index. We also give them a demo to encourage them to take the test," Garg said.
Spirometry measures the amount (volume) or speed (flow) of air that can be inhaled and exhaled. For this test, one has to breathe into a mouthpiece attached to the device.
The findings of the study, which is undertaken to understand the impact of air pollution on the health and come up with guidelines on action required, will be compiled and the Health department will come out with a detailed report after January 15.
Our comments section is governed by our Comments Policy . By posting comments at Medical Dialogues you automatically agree with our Comments Policy , Terms And Conditions and Privacy Policy .
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.