The Problem at a Glance
It is a known fact that almost ten of the top twenty most polluted cities in the world (those with the highest annual levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) are in India. (WHO report). The average concentration of PM2.5 in an Indian city is 150 μg/m3 of air whereas the WHO prescribed limit is 25 μg/m3.
For example, Delhi’s air is among the most polluted in the world — and children are the most at risk. During winter, toxic levels of PM2.5 and PM10 often rise 4 to 7 times above national safety standards.
While adults are affected too, children breathe faster, filter less, and are still developing — making them uniquely vulnerable. Polluted air can cause asthma, respiratory infections, skin infections, eye related issues and even hinder brain development.
Yet awareness and access to care remain out of reach for many underserved communities.
​Health Effects
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PM2.5 Exposure
Exposure to PM2.5 has been associated with several adverse health effects, such as premature death, increased hospital admissions for heart or lung conditions, acute and chronic bronchitis, asthma attacks, emergency room visits, respiratory symptoms, and restricted activity days. These health impacts are primarily observed in vulnerable groups like infants, children, and older adults with preexisting heart or lung diseases.
PM10 Exposure
Exposure to PM10 can worsen respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), leading to hospitalization and emergency department visits.
Health Impacts
Asthma, Pneumonia, COPD, Lung cancer
Tuberculosis
Neurodevelopmental disorders and IQ loss
Increased risk for adult chronic diseases.
Why Children?
Children are more susceptible to airborne pollutants as they have smaller lungs and faster breathing rates, exposure during growth years can lead to lifelong damage, oral breathing, educating children early helps them build awareness and helps them prevent getting these diseases later on as well.