PMA declares air pollution a major problem in Pakistan

KARACHI: Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) is deeply concerned over the recently released WHO's air quality database 2022, which shows that people around the globe are breathing unhealthy air.  

According to the report, the particulate matter, PM10 and PM2.5, has risen six-fold as compared to the database 2011, which is very alarming. The report also shows the presence of an elevated level of NO2, which is the outcome of the burning of fossil fuels at high temperatures.  

Particulate matters and Nitrogen dioxide are able to travel deeply into the respiratory tract, reaching the lungs and bloodstream can cause severe respiratory, lungs, cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and other diseases.  

PMA has been continuously raising its voice and demanding to take the necessary steps to control environmental pollution in Pakistan to save people's health. The Sindh High Court has thrice ordered the concerned authorities to take immediate steps to overcome pollution, but unfortunately, nothing has been done to improve the situation.  

Air pollution is a significant problem confronting Pakistan, with cities like Lahore and Karachi ranking among the most polluted globally. As per the latest global environment performance index (EPI) ranking, Pakistan is on the list of countries that suffer from poor air quality.   

Due to this air pollution, diseases of the Ear, Nose & Throat, and Chest are increasing geometrically, including Nasal Allergy, Sinusitis, Sour Throat, Nasal Obstruction, Laryngeal Cancer, Bronchitis and Lungs Cancer.  

Experts need to have a proper sewerage system to lessen the environmental issues. Hospitals and factories should properly dispose of their waste to prevent environmental pollution and severe health issues. Appropriate areas should be allocated to throwing waste. Untreated water should never fall into oceans, lakes and rivers. People need to plant more trees and conserve the forests. Cutting trees should be stopped to prevent air pollution, noise pollution, and global warming and reduce the effects of climate change. Forestation should be increased in cities that are overcrowded to prevent environmental pollution. The laws regarding the environment should be implemented strictly by letter and spirit.