Babies struggling to breathe in Delhi’s winter smog

Delhi Pollution: As toxic smog once again blankets Delhi, hospitals are reporting a sharp rise in newborns struggling to breathe.

Doctors say infant respiratory admissions have increased noticeably in recent weeks, placing the city’s youngest residents at the centre of the pollution crisis.

Infants at greater risk

“Infants breathe almost twice as fast as adults,” explained Dr Vishal Gupta, Senior Consultant in Neonatology at Fortis La Femme, Greater Kailash-II, and Fortis Shalimar Bagh. “This means they inhale more air, and therefore more pollutants, relative to their body weight. These fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, triggering respiratory infections, wheezing, and asthma very early in life.”

He added that prolonged exposure to toxic air can lead to long-term harm. “Prolonged exposure to this toxic air can stunt lung development, impair brain growth, and even increase the risk of long-term heart and metabolic diseases,” he said.\

Dr Medha, Paediatrician at Madhukar Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Delhi, said rising air pollution has become a serious health threat, particularly for infants whose lungs and immune systems are still developing. “Infants breathe faster and take in more air relative to their body weight than adults, which means greater exposure to pollutants like PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and ozone,” she said. “These fine particles penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing inflammation and long-term respiratory issues.”

She added that frequent exposure to polluted air has been linked to recurrent cough, wheezing, breathlessness, and bronchiolitis in infants. “Continuous exposure weakens immunity, making infants more prone to cold, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections,” Dr Medha noted, warning that toxic metals in the air and dust can also hinder neurological growth and cognitive development.

Hospitals report rise in respiratory cases

Paediatric and neonatal units in major hospitals across Delhi have reported an increase in infants with breathing difficulties since October.

Dr Amit Jindal, Consultant in Respiratory Medicine and In-charge of the Pollution Clinic at Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, said the surge is significant. “We are seeing a 25–30% increase in respiratory infections among infants and toddlers. Most of them present with symptoms like persistent cough, congestion, and difficulty in breathing.”

He explained that particulate matter, especially PM2.5, poses a grave risk. “Infants have smaller airways, so even minor inflammation can obstruct airflow. The pollutants cause irritation in the respiratory tract, making it harder for babies to breathe and feed properly,” he said.

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At Lok Nayak Hospital, similar trends are being observed. Dr Ritu Saxena, Deputy Medical Superintendent and Chief Medical Officer, said, “We are treating a growing number of infants with acute bronchitis and viral respiratory infections. Many of these cases are directly related to poor air quality. The air they breathe is literally poisoning their developing systems.”

Supporting these observations, Dr Medha said paediatricians across major hospitals have reported a 25–30% rise in respiratory illnesses among children under five during peak pollution months, with infants representing a significant share. “Available hospital data show that one in three children visiting emergency departments during winter months present with breathing difficulties or infections linked to poor air quality,” she said.

Invisible and long-term damage

Beyond immediate respiratory symptoms, doctors warn of more subtle and permanent damage.

“Exposure during infancy can have lifelong consequences,” said Dr Megha Consul, Senior Consultant and Unit Head of Neonatology at Fortis Hospital, Gurgaon. “Studies link early exposure to air pollution with reduced cognitive performance, slower motor development, and even an increased risk of attention disorders later in life.”

She added that research indicates higher risks of low birth weight and compromised immunity among newborns exposed to severe pollution. “Some evidence also suggests a potential link with Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS),” she added.

Dr Medha also pointed to findings from The Lancet Planetary Health, which reported that air pollution contributes to nearly 17% of premature infant deaths in India, with Delhi among the worst-affected regions. “The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) estimates that toxic air exposure in Delhi has led to a 30–40% increase in hospital admissions among infants and toddlers in recent years,” she said.

Parents face limited options

For many parents, the smog season brings anxiety and helplessness. Indoor environments also pose risks due to dust, cooking fumes, and limited ventilation.

Dr Gupta advised limiting exposure. “During days of severe pollution, keep windows closed and use HEPA air purifiers wherever possible. Avoid stepping out with infants, especially in the early mornings and late evenings. If going out is unavoidable, keep the baby in a covered stroller.”

He also emphasised hydration, nutrition, vaccinations, and regular paediatric check-ups.

Dr Medha noted that given infants spend most of their time indoors, indoor pollution caused by cooking fumes, dust, and poor ventilation compounds the problem. “Therefore, controlling both indoor and outdoor pollution is crucial to safeguard infant health in Delhi’s increasingly toxic air environment,” she said.