The World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed that air pollution is significantly linked to mortality from cardiovascular diseases, with low-income countries taking the burden of its impact
The study focuses on the ongoing global health issue suggesting that air pollution causes cardiovascular diseases. Using data from 183 WHO member states, the study emphasises that air pollution is a silent killer, particularly affecting those in less affluent nations.
Air pollution and heart-related deaths
Ischemic heart disease-related deaths put down to air pollution exceeded those caused by strokes in all countries analysed. In 2019 alone, outdoor air pollution was responsible for 16 ischemic heart disease-related deaths per 100,000 people in high-income countries, compared to 70 per 100,000 in low-income countries.
The research highlights a concerning trend in low-income countries, where household air pollution from polluting fuels and cooking stoves is a major health hazard.
Indoor pollution
This indoor pollution contributes to more than double the number of stroke-related deaths compared to outdoor air pollution, with 39 deaths per 100,000 attributed to household air pollution versus 19 per 100,000 from outdoor sources.
Dr Nikolai Khaltaev, the corresponding author of the study and a leading expert from the Global Alliance against Chronic Respiratory Diseases in Switzerland, emphasises the urgent need for action. “Effective air pollution control, lifestyle modifications and disease management, must form the cornerstone of cardiovascular disease preventive strategies,” Dr. Khaltaev asserts.
The affect in low-income countries
Air pollution affects individuals worldwide, but its impact is disproportionately severe in low-income communities. The contrast in mortality rates between high-income and low-income countries underlines the urgent need for targeted interventions and global cooperation to address this public health crisis.
In response to these findings, experts call for a multi-faceted approach to combat air pollution and its damaging effects on cardiovascular health. This includes implementing air quality regulations, promoting cleaner energy alternatives, and advocating for sustainable urban planning to reduce pollution.
Efforts to raise awareness and educate communities about the health risks associated with air pollution are crucial in encouraging individuals to take proactive steps to protect their health.
