- shdrfoundation@gmail.com
- Delhi
Dr. Govind Mawari
As a Senior Scientist at the Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, Maulana Azad Medical College in New Delhi, I have dedicated my career to addressing the pressing issues of occupational and environmental health, particularly as they relate to climate change. The rapid economic development in our country has exacerbated environmental hazards, necessitating proactive measures to safeguard public health. My professional goal is to enhance health outcomes for diverse populations affected by environmental factors, with a specific focus on respiratory disorders such as COPD, asthma, lung infections, silicosis, and lung cancer.
Over the years, I have cultivated a robust expertise in the field, driven by my passion for uncovering the underlying mechanisms of these common diseases. Our limited ability to effectively treat conditions like asthma and lung cancer underscores the critical need for further research. My work has centered on identifying biomarkers related to air, water, and soil pollution, alongside investigating genetic and molecular therapeutic targets, including the role of single nucleotide polymorphisms in pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators in chronic lung inflammation.
I have played an instrumental role in several impactful studies and initiatives. Notably, my collaboration with the Central Pollution Control Board of India led to the research project titled "To Study the Health Impact of Firecrackers during the Diwali Festival in Delhi" (2017), which was pivotal in advocating for a firecracker ban in the city. Additionally, my involvement in the study "Atmospheric Pollutants & Risk Assessment due to Exposure on Public Health in Delhi, NCR" (2019) provided critical insights into the health implications of BS VI fuel implementation and ethanol blending, in partnership with Indian Oil and the National Council of Applied Economic Research.
My research has also addressed significant environmental health issues, such as the alarming presence of heavy metals in our ecosystems. In a project focusing on the estimation of heavy metals and their health impacts, we uncovered startling findings regarding high levels of contaminants in water and raw vegetables, which correlate with rising cancer cases. Following our investigation into mercury exposure among dental healthcare workers, we successfully advocated for a “Mercury-free Healthcare” initiative, making Delhi the first city in India to implement such a policy.
In recognition of my contributions to the field, I was honored with the Young Scientist Award at the 5th Annual Scholars’ Science Meet in 2019. Additionally, I serve as a Board Member of the Ganesh Scientific Research Foundation (GSRF), where I collaborate with other experts to advance research and advocacy in environmental health. Link officer GNCTD air pollution related Respiratory health data in Delhi govt. hospital.
With a strong foundation in research, leadership, and community engagement, I am committed to furthering my work in environmental health, aiming to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future.