7 million people die from air pollution every year – WHO warns of global health crisis
On Tuesday, March 25, the World Health Organization (WHO) raised a stark alarm about the deadly impact of air pollution, reporting that it contributes to approximately 7 million premature deaths each year.
In a report shared on its X (formerly Twitter) handle, WHO revealed that 99 percent of the global population is breathing air that exceeds the organization’s recommended guideline limits. Low and middle-income countries, in particular, are facing the highest levels of exposure to polluted air.
The harmful pollutants present in the air, such as particulate matter, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and sulphur dioxide, pose severe risks to human health. These pollutants primarily stem from sources like household combustion, motor vehicles, industrial activities, and forest fires.
Key health risks
WHO highlighted that 2.4 billion people are exposed to dangerous household air pollution from fuels like kerosene, biomass, and coal, commonly used for cooking. Moreover, ambient outdoor air pollution—in both urban and rural areas—contributes to fine particulate matter, which has been directly linked to strokes, heart disease, lung cancer, and chronic respiratory illnesses.
Beyond its toll on health, the organization pointed out that air pollution accelerates climate change by releasing greenhouse gases through fossil fuel combustion, further exacerbating global warming.
Broader impacts
The WHO stressed that air pollution’s effects extend beyond physical health, also threatening mental well-being and food security. Studies show that long-term exposure to air pollution can lead to conditions such as depression, anxiety, and even dementia, with research from the University of Oxford’s Department of Psychiatry linking poor air quality to an increased risk of mental health disorders.
Air pollution also threatens global food production, with research indicating that pollutants can damage crops, slow plant growth, and reduce the nutritional value of food. This not only endangers farmers’ livelihoods but also raises concerns about global food shortages and hunger due to shifting weather patterns.
Urgent action needed
In response to this crisis, WHO is calling for stricter environmental regulations and a significant increase in investment in renewable energy. The organization advocates for cleaner energy solutions, improved waste management, and sustainable urban planning to mitigate the severe impacts of air pollution.
As the situation grows more urgent, the WHO is urging governments and industries to take immediate action to combat air pollution, protect public health, and tackle climate change.
