The rising pigeon population in the city is causing the populace of Delhi to be more prone to bird fanciers lung (BFL), also known as bird breeders lung disease.

Bird breeders lung disease is an immunologically mediated lung ailment brought on by persistent exposure to airborne avian antigens. If someone feeds birds or comes into contact with their waste at home or work, they are more likely to get the disease. According to experts, pigeons are being identified as a cause. The understanding this illness has been  benefited by the use of diagnostic tools like the CT scan, pulmonary function testing device, and bronchoscopic procedures.

Dr. Sarthak Rastogi, a Consultant-Pulmonology at SL. Raheja Hospital and Mahim - A Fortis Associate believe that Pigeon Breeders Disease is also referred to as Bird Fanciers Disease, Farmers Lung,.Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (HP), etc.

HP is a form of ILD (Interstitial Lung Disease), which typically develops as a result of exposure to an inhaled organic substance, such as highly antigenic avian proteins which are found in the bird droppings (excreta) and waxy proteins which cover several birds feathers (bloom). These trigger a hypersensitive response in a susceptible host.

This might result in harmful, life-threatening conditions like pneumonitis and hypertension, leading to interstitial or fibrotic lung disease.

Preventing exposure from wild pigeons becomes problematic, and the disease can worsen. Hence, it is essential to regulate pigeon breeding and population to check the spread of the diseases. Some exposure from the birds can be avoided by setting up bird nets at home and frequently cleaning up bird droppings.

(Source: https://health.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/industry/delhiites-at-risk-of-bird-breeders-lung-disease-pigeons-to-be-blamed/98561394)