Doctors Blame Pigeons Linked to Surge in Lung Disease Cases

Mumbai, 28th December 2023: In a concerning trend observed by Mumbai’s medical community, cases of hypersensitivity pneumonitis, a severe lung inflammation, have soared fivefold over the past seven years. This worrying surge has been attributed directly to the burgeoning population of pigeons within the city.

Dr. Pralhad Prabhudesai, a prominent pulmonologist among a group of alarmed physicians, has highlighted the correlation between increased exposure to pigeons and the spike in this immune system disorder. Pigeon droppings, containing harmful fungi, pose a significant risk when inhaled consistently over time.

“It’s a distressing, progressive condition,” remarked Dr. Prabhudesai. He emphasized the severe consequences, noting that chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis results in irreversible lung scarring, potentially necessitating constant oxygen support or even leading to a requirement for a lung transplant.

This alarming observation calls for urgent attention to manage Mumbai’s pigeon population, as their presence poses a tangible threat to public health. Authorities and citizens alike are urged to take measures to address this growing health concern to mitigate the risk of further escalation of this debilitating lung disease.