Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Air pollution is a persistent and growing health threat in cities around the world. As urbanization continues to rise and industrial activities expand, the levels of pollutants in the air are also increasing. This has significant implications for public health, with air pollution being linked to a wide range of health problems, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and even mental health disorders. Particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and ozone are among the most common air pollutants found in cities, originating from sources such as vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and biomass burning. These pollutants can have both short-term and long-term health effects, impacting individuals of all ages but posing a higher risk to vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Studies have shown that long-term exposure to air pollution is associated with an increased risk of respiratory illnesses such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as cardiovascular diseases including heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, air pollution has been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, cognitive impairments, and even an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer. Addressing the issue of air pollution requires a multi-faceted approach that involves collaboration between governments, industries, urban planners, and the public. Implementing stricter emission standards for vehicles, promoting the use of clean energy sources, investing in public transportation, and creating green spaces within cities are some of the strategies that can help reduce air pollution levels and protect public health. In addition to regulatory measures, raising awareness about the health impacts of air pollution is crucial in order to empower individuals to take actions to protect themselves and their communities. Simple steps such as reducing personal exposure to pollution by avoiding high-traffic areas during peak hours, using air purifiers indoors, and supporting policies that aim to improve air quality can make a significant difference in reducing the health burden of air pollution. By recognizing air pollution as a continuing health threat in the world's cities and taking proactive steps to address it, we can work towards creating cleaner and healthier urban environments for current and future generations.

Thesis Overview

27 SEPTEMBER 2016 | GENEVA – A new WHO air quality model confirms that 92% of the world’s population lives in places where air quality levels exceed WHO limits*. Information is presented via interactive maps, highlighting areas within countries that exceed WHO limits.

“The new WHO model shows countries where the air pollutioni danger spots are, and provides a baseline for monitoring progress in combatting it,” says Dr Flavia Bustreo, Assistant Director General at WHO.

It also represents the most detailed outdoor (or ambient) air pollutioni-related health data, by country, ever reported by WHO. The model is based on data derived from satellite measurements, air transport models and ground station monitors for more than 3000 locations, both rural and urban. It was developed by WHO in collaboration with the University of Bath, United Kingdom.

Some 3 million deaths a year are linked to exposure to outdoor air pollutioni. Indoor air pollution can be just as deadly. In 2012, an estimated 6.5 million deaths (11.6% of all global deaths) were associated with indoor and outdoor air pollution together.

Nearly 90% of air-pollution-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, with nearly 2 out of 3 occurring in WHO’s South-East Asia and Western Pacific regions.

Ninety-four per cent are due to noncommunicable diseases – notably cardiovascular diseases, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer. Air pollution also increases the risks for acute respiratory infections.

“Air pollution continues take a toll on the health of the most vulnerable populations – women, children and the older adults,” adds Dr Bustreo. “For people to be healthy, they must breathe clean air from their first breath to their last.”

Major sources of air pollution include inefficient modes of transport, household fuel and waste burning, coal-fired power plants, and industrial activities. However, not all air pollution originates from human activity. For example, air quality can also be influenced by dust storms, particularly in regions close to deserts.

The model has carefully calibrated data from satellite and ground stations to maximize reliability. National air pollution exposures were analysed against population and air pollution levels at a grid resolution of about 10 km x 10 km.

“This new model is a big step forward towards even more confident estimates of the huge global burden of more than 6 million deaths – 1 in 9 of total global deaths – from exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution,” said Dr Maria Neira, WHO Director, Department of Public Health, Environmental and Social Determinants of Health. “More and more cities are monitoring air pollution now, satellite data is more comprehensive, and we are getting better at refining the related health estimates.”

The interactive maps provide information on population-weighted exposure to particulate matter of an aerodynamic diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres (PM2.5) for all countries. The map also indicates data on monitoring stations for PM10 and PM2.5 values for about 3000 cities and towns.

“Fast action to tackle air pollution can’t come soon enough,” adds Dr Neira. “Solutions exist with sustainable transport in cities, solid waste management, access to clean household fuels and cook-stoves, as well as renewable energies and industrial emissions reductions.”