Early Risks of Poor Air Quality for Newborns in Delhi-NCR — by Dr. Chetna Jain

Delhi-NCR’s air quality frequently makes headlines — and for good reason. Newborns and very young infants are not “mini adults”: their lungs, immune systems and brains are still developing, and the polluted air we breathe here can have immediate and lasting effects. As a practicing gynecologist, I see families worried about how the city’s toxic air might affect their newborns. Below I explain the main risks, why babies are uniquely vulnerable, and practical steps parents can take to protect their little ones.

Why newborns are especially vulnerable

Babies breathe faster than adults and inhale more air per kilogram of body weight. Their lungs and defence mechanisms (like mucociliary clearance) are immature, so fine particles (PM2.5) and gaseous pollutants penetrate deeper and cause proportionally greater harm. In short: the same polluted air is more concentrated for a baby’s tiny body.

Short-term impacts to watch for

High air pollution days increase the risk of immediate respiratory problems in infants — cough, wheeze, bronchiolitis and increased likelihood of hospital visits for breathing issues. Babies born during or shortly after periods of very high pollution are also more likely to spend longer in neonatal care if they are premature or low birth weight.

Effects that begin before birth

The danger often starts in pregnancy. Maternal exposure to elevated PM2.5 levels is linked to higher risks of preterm birth, low birth weight and other adverse outcomes — all of which make newborns more vulnerable to infections and long-term lung problems. Reducing exposure during pregnancy is therefore crucial for healthier neonatal outcomes.

Possible long-term consequences

Emerging evidence links early-life exposure to polluted air with slower lung growth, greater lifetime risk of asthma and poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes. While not every exposed child will develop these conditions, the population-level impact in heavily polluted regions like Delhi is significant.

Practical, evidence-based steps for parents

1. Monitor AQI daily — On high AQI days (PM2.5 very elevated), keep newborns indoors and avoid outdoor errands.

2. Create a cleaner indoor air zone — Use a HEPA air purifier in the baby’s sleeping area; keep windows closed during peak pollution hours. (Regularly change filters and follow manufacturer guidance.)

3. Avoid indoor sources of pollution — No incense, mosquito coils, smoking, or open-flame cooking in the baby’s room; these add to indoor particle load.

4. Ventilate smartly — When outdoor AQI improves (check local monitors), ventilate rooms for short periods rather than leaving windows open on polluted days.

5. Hygiene & feeding — Breastfeeding supports immune health; hand hygiene and limiting visitors during high-pollution or viral seasons reduce infection risk.

6. Seek early medical advice — If your baby shows persistent cough, difficulty breathing, feeding problems, or fever, consult your pediatrician immediately.

What hospitals and policymakers must do

Clinics and neonatal units in Delhi-NCR should prioritise indoor air filtration and pollution-aware discharge counselling. Long term, cleaner transport, stricter emissions control and protection for pregnant women and infants must be public-health priorities to reduce preventable neonatal harm.

Final note from the clinic

Air pollution is a community problem, but families can still take meaningful steps to reduce immediate risk. If you are pregnant or have a newborn in Delhi-NCR, please discuss individual protective measures with your obstetrician and paediatrician — and remember: small, consistent actions at home (clean indoor air, smart ventilation, breastfeeding, prompt medical review) can make a big difference for your baby’s lungs and long-term health.

— Dr. Chetna Jain, Gurgaon

Sources: State of Global Air; peer-reviewed studies on prenatal PM2.5 exposure and birth outcomes; pediatric respiratory health reviews and Indian reporting on Delhi’s pollution impacts.