One mosquito coil equals 100 cigarettes

One mosquito coil equals 100 cigarettes,  says expert

Smoke emitted from one mosquito repellent coil is equivalent to those of 100 cigarettes, thus causing harm to a large number of people in India, an expert said on Wednesday.

"Not many people know about it, but the damage done to your lungs by one mosquito coil is equivalent to the damage done by 100 cigarettes. This was according to a recent study conducted in Malyasia," said Chest Research Foundation director Sandeep Salvi.

He was speaking at the conference 'Air Pollution and Our Health', organised by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) along with the Indian Council for Medical Research and the Indian Medical Association.

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Mr Salvi said there is a lack of awareness about the impact of air pollution on human health.

Pointing out the "lack of research culture" among Indian doctors, Salvi said that indoor air pollution too is a health risk factor.

Participants at the event, which included doctors and health researchers, also spoke about vehicular air pollution in the capital.

According to estimates, about 55 per cent of Delhi's population lives within 500 metres from main roads - and is, therefore, prone to a variety of physical disorders.

"The vehicular pollution is a major concern for the environment. The rising incidents of genetic disorder have a lot to do with air pollution. India loses one million children under five because of respiratory problems every year," said Sanjeev Bagai, the chief executive officer of Batra Hospitals.

He said industries also contribute to the air pollution and these need to be shifted out of the capital.

http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/one-mosquito-coil-equals-100-cigarettes-says-expert-130632

Coils and plug-in mosquito repellents contain chemicals which are not safe to be inhaled. Studies have shown that the smoke and fumes from them aggravate or cause breathing problems. They can also cause eye irritations or allergic reactions. In large doses, the chemicals can cause serious illnesses. Some research also links the burning of coils to lung cancer.

So if you're using coils and plug-in mosquito repellents:

Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

Keep your baby in another room. If you must take your baby into the room, open the windows first.

Do not sleep in a room with a plug-in repellent or burning coil.

If mosquitoes are a menace, consider using natural insect repellents instead. There are a number of them with varying levels of success.

You could also try keeping mosquitoes at bay by:

burning citronella or lemon grass scented candles in and on the landing of the house

burning citronella or lemon grass essential oils in a burner at dusk when it is usually the time that mosquitoes enter the house.

burning insect repellant incense sticks at dusk

Get rid of stagnant water. Empty old flower pots, vases, air coolers and other items that collect water, especially during the monsoon season.

Dress your baby in light-coloured clothing. Dark colours attract mosquitoes.

Dress your baby in long-sleeved and full length garments to avoid skin exposure.

Stay in air-conditioned or cool areas. Mosquitoes do not thrive in cold temperatures.

Use mosquito nets while sleeping, not only at night but also during daytime naps.

Install mosquito meshes on your doors and windows. You could try the detachable or velcro meshes that are available from hardware stores and home maintenance stores. These let in some light and breeze.

Keep your baby away from hedges and bushes when in the park. These are where mosquitoes are commonly found.

http://www.babycenter.in/baby/safety/coil-plug-in-insect-repellents/#ixzz2E3e7yu49

— with Fay Perrotte.