Higher cytotoxicity in human lung cells suggested due to presence of Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5

Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Environment; Pollution

In news

• A recent study – ‘Insights on the biological role of ultrafine particles of size PM<0.25: a prospective study from New Delhi’ was conducted recently.

Key takeaways

Proportion of Ultrafine Particles: 

• Particulate matter of below 0.25 micrometres constituted the highest share in the composition of PM2.5 around the year as compared to particles of other sizes.
• Exposure to ultrafine particles of below 0.25 micrometres was also associated with over two-fold higher cytotoxicity as compared to exposure to other sizes.

Reasons: 

• Celebration of Diwali.
• Stubble burning in neighbouring states of Punjab and Haryana.
• Secondary formation of particles due to favourable meteorological conditions.
• The low temperature and high humidity during winter nights enhance the fog-smog-fog cycle and result in 2-3-fold increase in PM concentration compared to pre-monsoon and South-West monsoon season.

Health Impacts: 

• Stroke
• Lung cancer
• Other heart and lung related problems