How many 'invisible cigarettes' are you smoking? Shocking AQI-to-cigarette equivalents revealed
Produced by: Manoj Kumar
Minimal Risk (AQI 0-50)
This level poses minimal health risks and is equivalent to breathing clean air, with a comparison of 0 cigarettes per day.
Moderate Exposure (AQI 51-100)
Moderate air quality equates to inhaling pollution similar to smoking 1-2 cigarettes daily, which may begin to affect sensitive individuals.
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (AQI 101-200)
Air quality at this level is comparable to smoking about 3-5 cigarettes per day, potentially causing respiratory irritation, especially for those with pre-existing conditions.
Very Unhealthy Air (AQI 201-300)
This level is equivalent to smoking around 6-10 cigarettes daily, leading to higher risks of respiratory inflammation, coughing, and decreased lung function.
Hazardous Levels (AQI 301-400)
Hazardous AQI is similar to smoking 11-15 cigarettes a day, with increased risks of respiratory issues, asthma exacerbation, and cardiovascular stress.
Severe Pollution (AQI 401-450)
Air quality in this range is equivalent to 16-20 cigarettes per day, with a high likelihood of reduced lung function, increased heart attack risk, and asthma attacks.
Extremely Hazardous (AQI 450-500)
Comparable to smoking 25-30 cigarettes daily, this level severely impacts lung and heart health, increasing the risk of infections, cardiovascular issues, and premature death.
Beyond Hazardous (AQI Above 500)
At this point, air pollution’s impact may exceed the equivalent of 30 cigarettes per day, posing life-threatening risks for everyone, particularly the young, elderly, and chronically ill.
Long-Term Developmental Impacts
In children, prolonged exposure to high AQI levels can slow lung development, comparable to the damage from years of low-level smoking, and can have lasting health implications.
Cancer and Cognitive Risks
High AQI is linked to particulate matter exposure, which increases lung cancer risk and may impact cognitive health, akin to long-term effects seen in smokers.