Children in the capital were found suffering of throat infection, asthma, cough and cold, as problems relating to heart and lungs in the long-term, all attributed to increasing air pollution in the valley, according to a study by the Nepal Health Research Council.
The study was carried out among students of 10 to 15 years of age studying in seven different schools in the valley.
Of the 801 children, who were studied as part of the research that lasted for a year, 30 per cent of them were found carrying respiratory problems owing to air pollution, it is stated in the study report released by the Council in the capital on Monday.
The students as well as their guardians and teachers were also part of the research, who answered a questionnaire and underwent medical examination.
Releasing the report, Lead Researcher of the Council, Dr Krishna Aryal said the direct impact of pollution was seen in the respiratory system of children.
Smoke emitted by vehicles was found to be the main catalyst in the high rate of air pollution in the valley.
Chairman of the Council Dr Chop Lal Bhusal said the study would help develop policy to minimize air pollution and to know the state of child health.
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