A recent study has found that poor air quality significantly contributes to the rate of pregnancy loss in South Asia, particularly in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. This is the first study of its kind to explore the effect of air pollution on miscarriage rates in these countries.
The Study and Its Findings
The researchers developed a model to evaluate how exposure to PM 2.5 (fine particulate matter pollution) increases a woman’s risk of pregnancy loss. They found that for each 10 µg/m³ increase in PM 2.5, after accounting for factors like maternal age, temperature, humidity, seasonal variation, and long-term trends in pregnancy loss, the risk for pregnancy loss increased by 3%. The study further revealed that the risk was greater for women from rural areas and older mothers, as compared to younger mothers in urban locations.
Regional Breakdown
The study found that out of all reported pregnancy loss cases, 77% were from India, 12% from Pakistan, and 11% from Bangladesh.
Limitations of the Study
However, the study had its limitations as it could not differentiate between natural pregnancy loss and abortions. This could have resulted in an underestimation of the impact of air pollution on natural pregnancy loss. Furthermore, the stigma attached to miscarriage or neglect of early-stage pregnancy loss might have led to under-reporting.
Air Pollution: An Overview
Air pollution involves any physical, chemical, or biological change to the atmosphere that can harm living organisms. It is mainly caused by harmful gases, dust, and smoke impacting plant, animal, and human health considerably.
Types and Causes of Air Pollution
Air pollutants, the substances that cause pollution, are of two types: primary and secondary. While primary pollutants are emitted directly from the sources such as particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and sulfur oxide, secondary pollutants like ozone and haze, are formed when primary pollutants intermix and react.
Significant contributors to air pollution include indoor burning of fossil fuels, industrial power generation, vehicles with diesel engines, agricultural activities, open waste burning, and organic waste in landfills.
Health Effects of Air Pollution
According to various studies, air pollution has severe impacts on human health. It is linked to premature deaths, diseases, reduced lung capacity, growth and mental issues, especially among children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
Indian Efforts to Control Air Pollution
India has launched several initiatives such as the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR, Bharat Stage (BS) VI norms, Disease Monitoring Dashboard, National Clean Air Programme, National Air Quality Index, National Ambient Air Quality Standards, a 15-point action plan ‘Breathe’, and Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana to combat air pollution.
Global Initiatives
Internationally too, various efforts have been made including the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, United Nations Clean Air Initiative, and World Health Organization’s 4 Pillar Strategy, to improve air quality and mitigate climate change.
Understanding PM 2.5
PM 2.5 is a type of particulate matter that has a diameter less than 2.5 micrometres. These particles are so tiny that they can only be detected with an electron microscope. They are known to cause respiratory issues, impact visibility, disrupt endocrine functions, and contribute to conditions like diabetes. They primarily stem from combustion activities like motor vehicles and industrial processes.
The Need for Action
The study’s findings underscore the urgent need to address air pollution and strengthen our health systems. It is crucial to raise public awareness about this issue and provide information on how individuals can contribute to reducing air pollution through personal behavioural changes.