Chennai:

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) procedures require a stable culture environment in which indoor air quality has a direct impact on the procedure outcome. A recent study was conducted to create awareness about the importance of monitoring real time Air Quality Index (AQI) inside IVF centres across India, which showcased pollutants found within labs, which can be detrimental to the entire IVF process.

The study conducted by Aura Air, an air- purifier manufacturer, conducted multiple exercises on indoor-air monitoring at independent IVF centres across the country. The study analysed the key premise-based parameters : AQI, PM (Particulate Matter) 2.5 and PM 10, VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), CO2 (Carbon Dioxide), CO (Carbon Monoxide), temperature, and humidity.

The results showed that the AQI in the lab spiked over 250 on average on several occasions, which is classified to be unhealthy and life-threatening. VOC, a common indoor air pollutant was the dominant pollutant of the study, in which the highest recorded level was 2600ppb, whereas the permissible or safe level is less than 500ppb. It was found that CO2, PM 2.5, PM 10 and CO levels were within the permissible range.

Commenting on the results of the study, Bharadwaj PV, managing director, Aura Air said, “Air particles or any kind of pollutants found within labs can be detrimental to the entire IVF process. This study was conducted to create awareness about the importance of monitoring air quality in real time. In fact, the Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Bill mandates monthly air-quality reports for Indian IVF centres.”

“IVF centres today have a dedicated budget for equipment that monitors and reduces VOC levels. Indoor air pollutants can be controlled through high-quality filters based on HEPA. We are confident that medical laboratories, IVF centres and hospitals will soon prioritize investing in air-quality monitoring and purification technologies to get rid of harmful VOCs that could hamper the outcomes in labs,” he added.