Air pollution in India has a profound and often disproportionate impact on women’s health, contributing to a range of physical and mental health challenges. Women in India, especially in urban areas, are exposed to hazardous levels of air pollution, which surpass global safety limits. This environmental burden affects their respiratory and cardiovascular health, leading to an increased risk of conditions like asthma, chronic bronchitis, and heart disease. Research indicates that prolonged exposure to polluted air can cause respiratory infections and exacerbate pre-existing conditions, particularly among women, who are more likely to experience respiratory symptoms due to hormonal and biological factors.
Source:- bbc news
One of the most significant impacts of air pollution on women in India is related to pregnancy. Studies have shown that exposure to high levels of air pollution during pregnancy can lead to complications such as low birth weight, premature birth, and developmental delays. The fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in polluted air can cross the placenta, affecting fetal development, leading to long-term health consequences for the child.
Source:- news 18
Moreover, air pollution worsens the quality of life for women, especially in rural areas where traditional cooking methods using biomass fuels, like wood and crop residue, contribute to indoor air pollution. The constant exposure to toxic smoke from cooking can lead to chronic respiratory diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a condition that severely affects women due to their prolonged exposure to indoor pollutants.
Additionally, the mental health consequences of air pollution on women are often overlooked. The anxiety and stress caused by the constant concern over health risks, along with the societal pressures to maintain a healthy family despite environmental challenges, can contribute to heightened mental health issues. Addressing these gendered impacts requires targeted health policies, improved air quality standards, and raising awareness about pollution’s specific effects on women’s health.
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