In Lucknow, where air pollution has escalated into a significant public health crisis, medical authorities convened on Thursday to assert that access to clean air should be recognized as a fundamental health entitlement. This pivotal declaration emerged from an awareness workshop focused on the Right to Clean Air, hosted by a private organization at King George's Medical University (KGMU).
Medical Professionals Unite for Clean Air Advocacy
The session drew approximately 65 healthcare experts, including doctors and administrators, who collectively endorsed the principle that clean air is indispensable for maintaining health and human dignity. During the discussions, experts articulated that "the right to clean air is the strongest prescription for public health," underscoring its critical role in preventing diseases and enhancing quality of life.
Government and Medical Leaders Call for Widespread Action
Amit Kumar Ghosh, Principal Secretary of Medical Health and Family Welfare, advocated for expanding such awareness initiatives across all districts of Uttar Pradesh. He emphasized the urgency of educating doctors, administrative officials, and journalists on effective strategies for air pollution control, highlighting the need for a collaborative approach to tackle this pervasive issue.
Alarming Health Trends Linked to Pollution
Dr. Ved Prakash, Head of Pulmonary and Critical Care at KGMU, presented concerning data indicating that a majority of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients today are non-smokers, with studies directly correlating this trend to deteriorating air quality. He further pointed to the robust connection between air pollution and increased infant mortality rates, labeling it a grave public health concern that demands immediate attention.
Policy Interventions and Public Awareness
Dr. Rajendra Prasad addressed the detrimental impacts of smoking and stressed that comprehensive policy-level efforts are essential to boost public awareness and regulate pollution sources. The session concluded with a consensus on the necessity of integrating clean air advocacy into healthcare frameworks and community education programs to safeguard public health in Lucknow and beyond.
