A recent study published in The Lancet Planetary Health sheds light on the alarming impact of short-term exposure to high levels of air pollution, resulting in over a million premature deaths annually. Led by researchers from Monash University, the study emphasizes the disproportionate burden borne by Asia and Africa, with Asia alone accounting for almost two-thirds of these deaths.
While previous research focused mainly on the long-term health effects of pollution in urban areas, this study delved into the immediate consequences of breathing in ultra-small particulates known as PM2.5 over short periods. Professor Yuming Guo, who led the study, highlighted the oversight in earlier assessments, which underestimated the mortality linked to PM2.5 by approximately 1 million deaths.
The research estimated daily PM2.5 concentrations globally and integrated this data with population density, mortality rates, and the relative risk of mortality associated with air pollution. It found that Asia bore the highest mortality burden, particularly in densely populated and highly polluted areas in eastern and southern Asia, and western Africa.
Guo emphasized the urgent need for direct measures to reduce air pollution and mitigate its health impacts. These measures include transitioning to clean energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency, and implementing measures to curb vehicle and industrial emissions. Additionally, strategies such as limiting outdoor activities during high pollution periods, using air purifiers indoors, and wearing face masks outdoors can help mitigate health risks.
Pete Baker from the Center for Global Development echoed the importance of recognizing and addressing the impact of air pollution on health. He emphasized the staggering number of deaths attributable to air pollution and called for greater action from governments and the health sector to combat this pressing issue.
The study underscores the critical need for concerted efforts at individual, community, and governmental levels to tackle air pollution and protect public health.
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