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SARGODHA, Oct 31 (APP): President of the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) Sargodha Dr Sikandar Hayat Warraich on Friday expressed grave concern over rising air pollution levels, warning that more than 100,000 people die prematurely each year due to pollution-related causes.
In his statement issued here, Dr Warraich noted that alongside the increase in dengue cases, the number of people affected by smog-related illnesses is also rising steadily. He cautioned that the intensity of smog is expected to worsen during the months of November, December, and January.
Highlighting the primary causes of smog, he pointed to vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, brick kilns, the burning of crop residues, and waste burning as major contributors.
Dr Warraich added that when the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeds 100, people with sensitive health conditions begin experiencing symptoms.
Respiratory issues, asthma, eye infections, flu, and skin problems can rise by up to 30 percent, he said.
He urged the government to take immediate and effective measures to curb the sources of pollution, while also appealing to the public to maintain cleanliness in homes, offices, and workplaces and to use protective masks to safeguard against pollution-related diseases.