New Delhi residents gasped for breath this January as a toxic cocktail of winter chill and hazardous air quality sent asthma drug sales soaring, according to data from IQVIA and Pharmarack.
Coughing Up More Than Dust:
Asthma medications topped the sales charts, displacing cardiac drugs which held the December crown.
Foracort, an asthma and respiratory issue medication, led the sales surge, followed by insulins, antiseptics, and antibacterial drugs.
The alarming trend reflects the widespread respiratory problems triggered by Delhi's worst January pollution since 2016, with an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 354 (severe).
Not Just a Puff of Concern:
Dr. Neetu Jain, a pulmonologist at PSRI Hospital, highlighted a significant rise in asthma cases across all age groups, with elderly patients experiencing more severe symptoms.
Inhalers and nebulizers were recommended for emergency use, emphasizing the importance of personalized asthma action plans for home management.
Pollution's Grim Grip:
Three "severe" AQI days and a prolonged spell of "very poor" air quality choked the city, with only one "poor" air day offering a brief respite.
This data underscores the urgent need for stricter pollution control measures to safeguard public health.
Beyond the Headlines:
This article paints a concerning picture of Delhi's air quality crisis and its impact on public health.
It highlights the importance of:
Individual preparedness with asthma action plans and emergency medications.
Collective action to address air pollution through policy changes and emission reduction strategies.
Further Exploration:
Surge in Asthma Medication Sales Linked to Poor Air Quality in January
