According to a recent study, air pollution is the second leading cause of death worldwide. This is a first of its kind report which examines the health impact of air pollution and its connection to climate change.
It was released by the Health Effects Institute (HEI), an independent U.S.-based nonprofit research organization. In 2021, the report found that air pollution was linked to more than 8.1 million deaths globally. This number includes children under five years of age, who are the most vulnerable age group for this risk. The report suggests that more than 700,000 children under five have died due to air pollution, which makes it the second leading cause of death for this age group after malnutrition.
The report also examines the connection between air pollution and climate change. It finds that long-term exposure to ozone pollution can lead to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, it can also contribute to climate change by warming the planet and increasing the levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. The compounding effects of air pollution and climate change are particularly concerning in densely populated areas with high levels of nitrogen dioxide pollution.
This can lead to significant health impacts, including cardiovascular disease and COPD. The report calls for urgent action to reduce air pollution and protect children’s health. It recommends investing in renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and implementing policies to promote clean air. It also stresses the importance of supporting children’s development and well-being. The HEI report highlights the critical role of air quality in human health and the need for sustained action to reduce pollution levels and protect children’s lives.