Health Ministry to Hold On-the-Spot Lung Capacity Tests in the Indian Capital

After successful implementation of the Odd-Even rule to combat soaring air pollution rates in Delhi, the health ministry has decided to conduct on-the-spot lung function tests on people to monitor the impact of air pollution.

It has planned to depute 10 mobile vans equipped with digital spirometers across the city along with the Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC). Each unit will have two doctors, two nurses, as many volunteers and one technician.

‘Delhi government in collaboration with Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC) has launched a drive to assess the lung capacity of the people for understanding the impact of air pollution on their health.’

The vans will be stationed at Rajiv Chowk Metro station, ITO, Nehru Place market, Jama Masjid, Vikas Marg, ISBT Anand Vihar, ISBT Kashmere Gate, Kamla Nagar market, Dilli Haat and Shadipur Depot from 9 am to 5 pm.

"We have seen media reports that air pollution is affecting the lungs of people in the city. So we decided to see what percentage of people have unhealthy lungs. The data gathered over 15 days will help us form policies and issue health advisories," said Satyendra Jain, health minister.

The spirometer measures the volume and speed of air inhaled and exhaled by a person. If the test result is above 80%, the lungs are considered okay. Anything below 70%, depending on the person's medical history, will be taken as a case for a visit to a pulmonologist.

The findings of the study will be compiled and the Health department will come out with a detailed study report.The study will provide a population-specific data for the city to see if there is a need to issue health advisories based on air pollution," the minister said.

Source: Medindia