The Deputy of Treatment at Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences in Ahwaz announced that air pollution in the Ahwaz region (Khuzestan) has become a chronic crisis, leading to a 70% rise in cardiopulmonary patient visits to healthcare centers.
Meysam Moezi stated that since the beginning of this year, more than 100,000 pollution-related medical visits have been recorded in the region, mainly linked to respiratory and cardiac problems. According to him, heart and lung patients, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are the most vulnerable groups.
He added that on polluted days, the number of emergency visits multiplies, hospital beds fill up more quickly, and heavy pressure is placed on medical staff. He warned that the continuation of this trend could seriously affect the quality of healthcare services.
According to the Air Quality Monitoring System, on September 17 the pollution index in cities such as Ma’shour (Mahshahr) (163), Hoveyzeh (152), and Mohammerah (Khorramshahr) (151) reached levels considered unhealthy for all groups. Additionally, the cities of Abadan, Khalafieh (Ramshir), Amidiyah (Omidieh), and Fallahieh (Shadegan) were reported as unhealthy for sensitive groups.
The presence of polluting industries such as oil, gas, petrochemicals, steel, and sugarcane has been cited as the main causes of air pollution in Ahwaz. Moezi stressed that to contain this crisis, serious involvement from the governor’s office, the Environmental Protection Organization, municipalities, and industries is essential.
Experts advise that under unhealthy air conditions, individuals with heart or lung disease, the elderly, and children should avoid strenuous or prolonged outdoor activities.
