Public Health Impacts of Air Pollution:

Exposure to high levels of air pollution leads to a range of health issues, both in the short and long term. Fine particles, in particular, penetrate deep into the lungs and pose a significant risk to public health. These particles increase the likelihood of respiratory infections, heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions. Additionally, poor air quality heightens the risk of stillbirth, miscarriage, and neurological disorders like cognitive impairment and dementia.

In 2019, air pollution was responsible for approximately 6.7 million deaths, with nearly 85% of these linked to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like ischemic heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and diabetes. This makes air pollution the second leading cause of NCDs globally, following tobacco.

Protecting Ourselves from Air Pollution:

• Tackling air pollution is a collective responsibility. Immediate and proactive measures are essential to protect public health, requiring coordinated efforts across all sectors, including governments, cities, communities, and individuals.

National Governments:

• Should prioritize reducing emissions and establishing national standards aligned with WHO air quality guidelines. Investment in research and education about clean air is crucial for evaluating policies and tracking progress.

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Cities and Local Communities:

• Health considerations should be integrated into all policies, with access to adequate data and tools for assessing health outcomes.

Individuals:

• Advocate for the right to a healthy and sustainable environment and hold governments accountable.

Everyone:

• Rethink consumption habits and make sustainable choices for the sake of current and future generations.

Understanding Particulate Matter:

• Particulate matter (PM) consists of airborne particles such as dust, dirt, soot, smoke, and liquid droplets. Sources like diesel vehicles and coal-fired power plants emit high concentrations of particulate matter. Particles smaller than 10 micrometers in diameter (PM10) can be inhaled and accumulate in the respiratory system, posing serious health risks. Even more concerning are particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5), known as “fine” particles. Due to their small size, they can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, leading to severe health consequences.

Sources of Air Pollution:

• Major contributors to pollution include inefficient transportation methods, the combustion of household fuels for cooking, lighting, and heating, coal-fired power plants, agriculture, and waste burning. Some air pollutants also function as greenhouse gases, exacerbating climate change and further increasing the health burden associated with air pollution.

Strategies for Reducing Air Pollution:

• Countries can implement various interventions to mitigate the health effects of air pollution, such as:
• Developing sustainable urban transport systems
• Implementing solid waste management practices
• Providing access to clean household fuels and cookstoves
• Promoting renewable energy markets and energy efficiency
• Reducing industrial emissions

WHO’s Role in Combating Air Pollution:

• The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a critical role in identifying and monitoring the air pollutants most harmful to human health. This information helps countries focus on effective strategies to prevent or reduce health risks. WHO analyzes scientific evidence and consults experts to understand how air pollutants impact health, identifying effective measures to reduce pollution.
• In 2015, WHO Member States adopted a resolution to address the adverse health effects of air pollution, agreeing on a roadmap for a global response. WHO’s work in this area is structured around four pillars:
• Expanding the knowledge base
• Monitoring and reporting
• Global leadership and coordination
• Strengthening institutional capacity

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WHO’s Strategy on Air Quality and Health:

• WHO’s strategy on air quality, energy, and health outlines specific actions for the health sector to promote health across all policies and ensure access to quality health services. The strategy focuses on three key areas:
• Enhancing knowledge, evidence, and progress measurement
• Building institutional capacity and providing technical support
• Leading and coordinating global efforts
• The “WHO Strategic Approach for Air Quality, Energy Access, and Health” framework for 2023-2030 aims to intensify WHO’s efforts to protect populations from the health impacts of air pollution and energy access deficiencies.