Smog and the Growing Burden on Child Health in Lahore

Abstract

Lahore’s recurrent smog has now evolved into serious public health concerns. The city has repeatedly been ranked among the most polluted cities worldwide, with fine particulate matter levels many times higher than World Health Organization guidelines. These conditions have resulted in a visible rise in respiratory infections, asthma exacerbations and emergency visits, particularly among children, who are the most vulnerable group. Pediatric wards in large public hospitals report seasonal surges of wheeze, chest infections and poorly controlled asthma during high pollution periods, adding pressure to already burdened health services.