Masking should be a routine, not a reaction, say experts at webinar

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Addressing the growing health impact of polluted air, experts discussed the rising burden of respiratory illnesses, the different ways pollution impacts each age group, and the practical steps households can adopt at The Hindu’s webinar on ‘Deteriorating Air Quality: Impact on Health’ held on Sunday (November 23).

Koushik Muthu Raja Mathivanan, founder and director, Chennai Institute of Pulmonology, and head of department, Sri Muthukumaran Medical College, gave an overview of how worsening air quality is linked to almost every major lung condition. 

“Pollution is no longer a seasonal concern — it is a daily reality. Masking should be a routine, not a reaction,” he said.

Janani Sankar, paediatrician and medical director, Kanchi Kamakoti CHILDS Trust Hospital, explained how children were among the most vulnerable groups in the current air-quality crisis. With lungs that are still developing and higher breathing rates than adults, children inhale more polluted air relative to their body size. 

Priyanka Rana Patgiri, consultant, geriatrics, Apollo Hospitals, explained that elderly individuals faced the highest health risks during prolonged exposure to polluted air. “Pollution does not stop at the lungs. It affects the brain, heart, and metabolic stability, making protection essential for older adults,” she said.

The panellists stressed that while medical care was essential, community awareness, responsible behaviour, and long-term policy measures were critical to reducing the health impact of toxic air.

The session was moderated by Athira Elssa Johnson, Senior Reporter, The Hindu. The webinar can be viewed at www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Z0HNzeOEts