World Health warns: Air pollution kills 7 million people annually

Written by Amal Allam

Thursday, December 7, 2023 12:34 AM

The organization emphasized: “The size of our population and proximity to challenges means that cities have enormous potential to bring about change. We can also lead by example. That is why, as world leaders gather at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), we are calling on cities around the world To adopt effective air monitoring programs and use data to promote public health measures that improve the lives of its citizens.”

The World Health Organization added in its statement: “It is our responsibility as leaders to engage our communities in this process, speak transparently, and ensure that urban air quality data is publicly available and readily available. Access to air pollution data allows our cities to calculate the burden and health impacts resulting from different levels of exposure.” “Most importantly, it allows us to act. Using this data, we can implement precise and effective solutions that target the most affected populations, and save lives.”

The organization’s statement concluded: “We are committed to breaking the destructive cycle of climate change and air pollution and their disastrous impacts on public health in urban centres. As part of the Partnership for Healthy Cities, we are working to prevent noncommunicable diseases and create healthier, safer, more resilient and more equitable cities.”

Air pollution is the second leading cause of death from non-communicable diseases after tobacco, and non-communicable diseases linked to air pollution include heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), almost all of the world’s population (99%) breathes air that exceeds WHO guideline limits. Citizens in low- and middle-income countries are disproportionately affected, where about 89% of premature deaths occur.