When pollution crosses the line: AQI 500 vs AQI 200 — what these numbers mean for your lungs

India’s Air Quality Index (AQI) translates pollution levels into health risks, classifying air quality into six categories. PM2.5, a key pollutant, deeply impacts lungs and bloodstream, with levels of 200 causing noticeable stress and 500 leading to severe complications. Vulnerable groups like children and the elderly face heightened risks.