AQI (Air Quality Index): All You Need to Know

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a vital tool used to communicate how polluted the air currently is or how polluted it is forecasted to become. It reflects the presence of harmful pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, and carbon monoxide. Understanding AQI helps people make informed decisions about outdoor activities and personal health precautions. Prolonged exposure to poor air quality can cause respiratory and cardiovascular issues. With health plans from Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company, individuals can access timely care for pollution-related conditions across 18,400+ hospitals.

What is AQI (Air Quality Index)?

AQI, or Air Quality Index, is a numerical scale that measures and reports daily air pollution levels. It simplifies complex data into a single number and category, making it easier for the public to understand the potential health impact of air quality in a given location.

How Does the AQI Work?

The AQI uses a scale from 0 to 500, with higher values indicating worse air quality. It is based on the concentrations of key pollutants, including PM2.5, PM10, ozone (O3), carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). The index is divided into six categories, each with a colour code and corresponding health advisory. For instance, an AQI below 50 is considered ‘Good’, while anything above 300 is ‘Hazardous’. The AQI system allows people to assess whether outdoor air is safe for physical activity, especially for sensitive groups.

Why is AQI Important for Your Health?

AQI is essential for monitoring the safety of the air we breathe. High AQI levels are linked to a rise in asthma attacks, bronchitis, heart issues, and long-term respiratory damage. Children, elderly people, and individuals with pre-existing conditions are particularly at risk. Monitoring AQI helps prevent exposure during dangerous levels and allows individuals to take precautions like wearing masks or staying indoors. Public health advisories rely on AQI data to alert communities and protect vulnerable groups.

How is the AQI Calculated?

The AQI is calculated by measuring the concentrations of major air pollutants over a specific duration. Each pollutant’s concentration is converted into a sub-index score. The final AQI is determined by the highest sub-index of all pollutants recorded. For example, if PM2.5 has the highest sub-index score, it will determine the overall AQI for that location. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in India uses this standardised method to ensure accurate and comparable AQI readings across regions.

AQI Categories and Meaning

The AQI is divided into six colour-coded categories:

This classification helps citizens take appropriate action based on air quality levels.

What Causes Poor Air Quality?

Several sources contribute to poor AQI levels:

• Vehicular emissions: A major contributor in urban areas.
• Industrial pollution: Factories release gases and fine particles.
• Construction activities: Dust and debris elevate PM levels.
• Burning of fossil fuels and biomass: Especially during winters.
• Waste burning: Common in both urban and rural areas.
• Seasonal changes: Stagnant air in winters worsens air quality.

These factors combined create a hazardous mix of pollutants, particularly PM2.5 and PM10, which can deeply penetrate the lungs and bloodstream.

Also Read: Understanding Diseases Caused by Air Pollution: Risks and Controls

Health Effects of Poor AQI

Prolonged exposure to poor air quality can cause:

• Respiratory issues: Asthma, bronchitis, coughing, and throat irritation
• Cardiovascular problems: Higher risk of heart attacks and strokes
• Skin and eye irritation
• Fatigue and reduced immunity
• Worsening of existing conditions: Such as diabetes or COPD

Even short-term exposure can trigger health effects, especially in children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing illnesses. Managing these conditions can be costly, making health insurance offered by Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company, a key support system.

AQI and Its Impact on People with Respiratory Conditions

Individuals with asthma, COPD, or bronchitis are highly vulnerable to changes in AQI. Even moderately high levels can worsen their symptoms, reduce lung function, and increase hospital visits. It is crucial for such individuals to monitor AQI daily, use prescribed inhalers regularly, avoid outdoor activity during high AQI days, and wear protective masks.

How to Protect Yourself from Bad AQI?

• Stay indoors during high pollution days
• Use air purifiers at home
• Wear N95/FFP2 masks outdoors
• Avoid peak traffic hours
• Keep windows closed
• Stay hydrated and eat antioxidant-rich foods

Awareness and consistent precautions go a long way in reducing the health risks associated with poor air quality.

Government Initiatives for AQI Control in India

The Indian government has implemented multiple initiatives, including:

• National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): Aims to reduce PM levels by 20–30% in major cities
• Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): Seasonal emergency measures
• Promotion of EVs and cleaner fuels
• Ban on stubble burning (in progress)
• Urban afforestation and smart city air monitoring

These efforts, while ongoing, are critical to controlling urban pollution levels.

Also Read: 10 Effective Ways to Keep Your Lungs Healthy and Strong

Insurance Tips for Air Pollution-related Illnesses

• Choose a plan that covers respiratory disorders, including asthma, COPD, and lung infections
• Look for cashless hospitalisation under networks like Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company’s 18,400+ partner hospitals
• Include preventive health check-ups and diagnostic test coverage
• Ensure coverage for chronic illness medication and consultations
• Consider top-up plans if you live in high-risk zones (e.g., Delhi-NCR)

Health insurance tailored for urban lifestyles provides financial and health security against long-term pollution effects.

FAQs

What is a safe AQI level for sensitive groups?

An AQI below 100 is generally safe. Sensitive groups should be cautious once levels cross 100, and avoid outdoor exposure above 200.

Can poor air quality lead to hospitalization?

Yes, especially for those with asthma, heart disease, or weakened immunity. High AQI can trigger medical emergencies.

How does air pollution affect health insurance claims?

Frequent pollution-related illnesses may increase claims, making comprehensive coverage essential to avoid out-of-pocket expenses.

What steps should be taken on days with poor AQI?

Limit outdoor activity, use air purifiers and masks, follow prescribed medication routines, and track AQI updates regularly.