Spike in Acute Respiratory Illnesses Linked to Pollution: Government Data Reveals Alarming Trend
New Delhi – Government data has revealed a concerning surge in acute respiratory illnesses (ARI) across the country, with a significant number of cases linked to air pollution. Information shared in the Parliament indicates that over two lakh patients reported to emergency departments with acute respiratory illnesses between 2022 and 2024 in Delhi alone.
The data, presented by the Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, in the Rajya Sabha, highlights the correlation between rising air pollution and respiratory diseases. In 2024, the capital recorded 68,411 ARI cases in hospitals' emergency departments, with 10,819 requiring hospitalization. The figures for 2023 and 2022 were also alarming, with 69,293 and 67,054 cases respectively, and hospitalization numbers remaining high at 9,727 and 9,828.
The Health Ministry acknowledges air pollution as a major trigger for respiratory ailments and associated diseases. The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is conducting sentinel surveillance of air pollution-related illnesses through a network of over 230 sites across 30 states and Union Territories. In August 2023, the government launched Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI) digital surveillance through the Integrated Health Information Portal (IHIP).
While the data indicates a strong association, the government maintains that there is no conclusive data to establish a direct correlation of death or disease exclusively due to air pollution. The Minister of State noted that health effects are a synergistic manifestation of various factors including food habits, occupational habits, socio-economic status, medical history, immunity, and heredity.
Despite the absence of conclusive data, the rise in respiratory illnesses is putting a strain on healthcare resources and increasing financial stress on families. Industry data reveals a significant spike in respiratory-related hospitalizations in Delhi, jumping from 5-6% in early 2024 to 17-18% in the second half of the year. A joint BCG–Medi Assist study also found an 8.3% rise in respiratory claims between FY23 and FY25, the highest in India. A single pollution-triggered hospitalization in a private hospital can cost ₹35,000 to ₹80,000, with additional expenses for follow-up tests and medications.
The surge in ARI cases has prompted discussions on strengthening health insurance coverage for respiratory ailments. Experts recommend that individuals check their health insurance plans for respiratory coverage, including OPD, inhaler/nebulizer coverage, and room rent limits. Choosing a family floater plan and adding a super top-up can provide additional financial security.
The government's data underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to combat air pollution and mitigate its impact on public health. While efforts are being made to monitor and track respiratory illnesses, experts emphasize the importance of addressing the root causes of pollution and promoting preventive healthcare measures.
