Rediff has sensitized the issue which on a ‘silent killer’. The WHO report is scaring to read that “Air Pollution is stunting our children's brains, apart from impact of Environmental and Social Determinants affecting health”. It is well established that undernutrition is known to cause sub-clinical damage at molecular level and cannot be detected clinically. Similarly, environmental pollutants at chronic, low level exposure cause slow progressive damage of organ systems responsible for Hemoglobin synthesis, neuronal developments, kidney damage apart from leading to immune dysfunction. Both facts together will increase severity on health of children specially in developing countries. The data generated at various public and private groups needs compilation and coordinated efforts by Ministry Health/ Environment/ Science Technology. This is possible if Government is serious to identify contributors and committed scientists in bringing facts and develop immediate intervention strategies through effective policy.
