Air pollution poses a severe threat to health worldwide. In India, the consequences are particularly dire. A new study from Karolinska Institutet reveals alarming data linking long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) with millions of deaths. Published in The Lancet Planetary Health, the research stresses the urgent need for stricter air quality measures.
PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometres in diameter. These particles easily penetrate the lungs and bloodstream, causing severe health risks. India consistently reports high PM2.5 levels, endangering nearly 1.4 billion people.
The study evaluated data from 655 districts across India from 2009 to 2019. Researchers found a direct link between increased PM2.5 levels and rising mortality rates.
SHOCKING NUMBERS: MORTALITY LINKED TO POLLUTION
For every 10 micrograms per cubic metre rise in PM2.5, mortality increased by 8.6%. Over the ten-year period, 3.8 million deaths were linked to pollution exceeding India’s air quality guideline of 40 micrograms per cubic metre.
The numbers are even more devastating when compared to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) stricter limit of 5 micrograms per cubic metre. The study estimates 16.6 million deaths due to air pollution, accounting for nearly 25% of all fatalities in the timeframe.
UNEVEN DISTRIBUTION OF PM2.5 LEVELS
The study highlights stark regional differences in pollution levels. Certain regions recorded PM2.5 concentrations as high as 119 micrograms per cubic metre. These levels far exceed both India’s standards and WHO’s recommendations. Alarmingly, no area in India met WHO’s air quality guidelines during the study.
INEFFICIENCY OF CURRENT REGULATIONS
India’s air quality regulations are insufficient to safeguard health, according to the research. Despite a national air pollution control programme launched in 2017, PM2.5 concentrations have risen in several areas.
The findings underline the need for enhanced regulations and enforcement. Reducing emissions locally and addressing pollution carried across regions is essential.
A CALL FOR ACTION: STRICTER GUIDELINES NEEDED
Study author Petter Ljungman stresses the urgent need for action. “Our results demonstrate that stricter air quality standards are vital to protecting public health,” he says.
The research team also recommends global collaboration. Air pollution transcends borders, necessitating coordinated international efforts to mitigate its impact.
THE BROADER IMPACT ON PUBLIC HEALTH
Long-term exposure to PM2.5 not only increases mortality but also exacerbates chronic diseases. Conditions such as respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular disorders, and even cancer are linked to prolonged exposure.
With India’s population continually growing, addressing air pollution is critical for preventing a looming public health crisis.
SOLUTIONS AND WAY FORWARD
The study provides clear evidence to guide better air quality policies in India and worldwide. Recommended measures include:
- Adopting Stricter Standards: Aligning India’s guidelines with WHO recommendations.
- Reducing Emissions: Investing in cleaner energy and industrial technologies.
- Improving Monitoring Systems: Installing more sensors to track real-time pollution levels.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating citizens on the health impacts of air pollution.
- Encouraging Global Cooperation: Sharing strategies and resources for effective pollution control.