News Excerpt:
According to the recently released State of Global Air Report, air pollution was responsible for 8.1 million deaths worldwide in 2021, with China and India contributing more than half of this global burden.
Key highlights of the report:
- China accounted for 2.3 million deaths, and India for 2.1 million deaths due to air pollution.
- Air pollution is one of the leading causes of death globally, second only to high blood pressure.
- It surpasses tobacco consumption as a primary cause of death and disability.
- Of the total deaths in 2021, 700,000 were children under the age of five. "Air pollution poses an enormous and growing public health challenge," the report asserts.
India's Struggle with Air Pollution:
- India faces a severe impact from air pollution, with 2.1 million deaths in 2021.
- India along with China, accounts for 55% of the global deaths attributed to air pollution.
- Besides particulate matter, Indians are also significantly exposed to high levels of ozone.
- Short-term exposure to ozone can exacerbate asthma and other respiratory symptoms.
- Long-term exposure is linked to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), which inflames the lungs and obstructs airflow.
- In 2021, 489,000 global deaths were attributed to ozone exposure, with nearly 50% (237,000 deaths) occurring in India.
- The country also reported the highest number of pollution-linked deaths among children under five, with at least 169,400 deaths in 2021.
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State of Global Air
About the 2024 Report
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Conclusion:
The report underscores the urgent need to improve air quality and address health disparities. Air pollution's significant public health impact requires comprehensive measures to reduce exposure and mitigate its health effects.
