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What is AQI? A Simple Guide to Understanding Air Quality Levels and Health Risk

If you've ever glanced at the weather app or seen a giant LED screen flashing an “AQI” number and thought, "What does this even mean?, you’re not alone. Air Quality Index (AQI) can seem like just another technical term in the flood of information we face daily. It can seem confusing at first, but understanding it is essential for protecting your health. Each AQI level represents a different degree of air pollution, and with each change, the risks and protective measures also vary. And we’re here to simplify it for you!


CPCB AQI Display: Trusted Source for Real-Time Air Quality Updates

What Is AQI?


AQI or Air Quality Index is like a report card for the air around you.It gives you a single number (usually between 0 and 500) that tells you how clean or polluted the air is and what that means for your health. Although the number can also go beyond 500 when the air pollution is highly harmful. Think of it as a way to translate complex air quality data into something everyone can understand. The higher the number, the worse the air quality.


The AQI focuses on major air pollutants like:

  • PM2.5 and PM10 (tiny particles that can get into your lungs or bloodstream),

  • Ozone (good up high, bad nearby),

  • Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2),

  • Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), and

  • Carbon Monoxide (CO).

 

Decoding AQI Numbers:


Air Quality Index (AQI) Chart: Understanding Different AQI Levels and Health Risks

1. Good (0–50): All Clear

  • Condition: Air is clean and safe for everyone.

  • Health Impact: No risk to health.

  • Measures: Go outside, exercise, and enjoy outdoor activities.


2. Satisfactory (51–100): Slight Concerns

  • Condition: Air quality is acceptable, though sensitive groups (like people with asthma) might notice mild effects.

  • Health Impact: Minor breathing discomfort for sensitive individuals after long exposure.

  • Measures: The general population doesn’t need to take precautions. Sensitive people should avoid prolonged outdoor exposure if they feel discomfort.


3. Moderate (101–150): Be Cautious

  • Condition: Pollution levels increase, posing a moderate risk.

  • Health Impact: Sensitive groups may experience more noticeable health effects like coughing or mild breathing issues. Healthy people may also feel discomfort after prolonged exposure.

  • Measures: Reduce outdoor activities. If you have respiratory issues, wear a mask and use air purifiers indoors.


4. Poor (151-200): Watch Out

  • Condition: Pollution is significant, affecting the general population.

  • Health Impact: Prolonged exposure can lead to throat irritation, breathing difficulties, and aggravation of respiratory conditions.

  • Measures: Avoid outdoor activities, especially intense physical ones. Use masks and keep your indoor spaces ventilated with air purifiers.


5. Very Poor (201-300): Serious Risks

  • Condition: The air is heavily polluted and poses a health risk for everyone.

  • Health Impact: Increased risk of respiratory infections, lung damage, and cardiovascular stress.

  • Measures: Stay indoors as much as possible. Use air purifiers, avoid outdoor physical activity, and monitor AQI updates regularly.


6. Severe (300+): Hazardous

  • Condition: The air quality is dangerous, even for healthy individuals.

  • Health Impact: Immediate health effects like lung irritation, shortness of breath, and worsened heart conditions. Long-term exposure can lead to sirreversible lung damage, heightened cancer risks, and cardiovascular emergencies.

Measures:

  • Avoid going outdoors under any circumstances.

  • Use N95 masks or better when stepping outside is unavoidable.

  • Seal your indoor spaces completely and operate high-efficiency air purifiers 24/7.

  • Consult a doctor immediately if symptoms worsen.

 

Also check out how PM levels vary:


How to Check AQI: Importance of Clean Air for Your Health
image via www.researchgate.net

 

The Role of Air Purifiers


Air purifiers aren’t just a luxury in these conditions—they’re essential. A high-grade purifier can:

  • Remove particulate matter like PM2.5 and PM10, which are dangerous even at lower AQI levels.

  • Also, remove harmful particles like dust, allergens, and smoke, so you breathe cleaner air.

  • Eliminate harmful gases like carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide that spike in severe pollution.

  • Protect your health indoors when the outside air is unmanageable.


Protecting Your Lungs: The Role of Air Purifiers in Reducing Indoor Air Pollution

Don’t let poor air quality control your life. Discover how an air purifier such as uBreathe can safeguard your family’s health with cutting-edge air purification technology. Visit uBreathe today—because every breath counts.


📍Want to know the air quality around you? Check trusted sites like the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) or AirVisual for for real-time, reliable AQI updates and stay informed!
 

uBreathe is an organization that focuses on Air wellness systems and Plant-based Air cleaners designed for your space, supported by the goodness of nature & the power of technology. It was empowering businesses to be more sustainable with improved air quality that is sustained through our air-wellness systems.


BY DEBOPRIYA CHANDRA



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