What is Smog and How Does It Affect Our Health?

According to the World Health Organization, 99% of the global population lives in places where air pollution levels exceed WHO’s guidelines. Smog leads to air pollution, which can cause a number of diseases. In recent times, countries like Pakistan and India have been the center of attention due to the hazardous smog conditions in different cities. Lahore was ranked as the most polluted city due to poor air quality in 2024. This article will help you understand the effects of smog, the reasons behind smog formation, and how you can protect yourself from it.

What is Smog?

Smog is a combination of two words, namely smoke and fog. It is an intense and visual form of air pollution. The air polluted due to smog contains harmful chemicals and particles. Recent reports have highlighted multiple causes of smog in Pakistan, including emissions from vehicles, smoke from industries, and the burning of stubble.

What Causes Smog?

With time, air pollution levels are increasing, which is alarming. Smog formation in Lahore, Pakistan, is due to a number of reasons such as: 

• Smoke from the burning of stubble by farmers 
• Heavy traffic emissions 
• Burning coals in brick kilns
• Air pollution caused by other industries 

Its consequences are severe and a threat to human health.

Adverse Effects of Smog on Human Health

Smog affects human health in several ways. Children and elderly people are more likely to be affected by smog. Experiencing a burning sensation, redness, itching, and irritation in the eyes are among the common effects of smog.

Moreover, when we inhale smog, it can lead to many respiratory disorders. The alarming symptoms of being affected by smog include wheezing, coughing, headaches, and dizziness. The existing conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can aggravate because of this pollution. According to the American Lung Association, particle pollution and ozone are a threat to human life as they worsen human heart and lung conditions, and shorten life span.

Pakistan’s Battle: Air Pollution and Surging Eye Cataracts

How To Protect Yourself Smog?

It’s important to spread awareness and take steps that can save you from the effects of smog on human health.

• Avoid Staying Outdoors: Your home is the safest place for you to be when the city is affected by smog. Inhalation of toxic air when spending time outdoors can increase your chances of getting affected by smog.
• Face Masks & Glasses: They play a crucial role in protecting against smog. Consider wearing a face mask as it can filter out airborne particles which may cause irritation and breathing issues. Glasses protect your eyes from that burning sensation caused by smog.
• Washing your Eyes Regularly: This may help with the removal of particles and chemicals from the eye.
• Cleaning Indoor Air: Smog can enter your home through windows, so it is important to use an air purifier that can reduce the concentration of indoor air pollutants.

How Can Smog Be Reduced?

As reported by the BBC, Lahore’s 13 million residents have been facing the effects of smog for a long time now, and the air quality index has surpassed 1000. Air quality index levels above 300 are considered hazardous. Individual actions such as opting for fuel-efficient vehicles, switching to public transport or carpooling rather than driving your vehicles, planting trees, and avoiding burning trash and stubble can make an impactful difference.

After understanding the effects of smog on human health, we should focus on adopting preventive measures mentioned in this article. We can also do a lot as individuals and organizations to reduce smog. Transparent Hands is taking multiple steps to address these issues. At our medical camps, our doctors treat needy patients who are suffering from breathing and respiratory problems. In addition, our experts hold preventive healthcare sessions to educate people about the effects of smog and how to protect themselves from it. Donate now and help us reach more people.