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[1]: air Pollution and Health Impacts in Central, Southeast, and south Asia … Each region ― Central, Southeast, and South Asia ― has its own unique sources and the effects of air pollution exposure impact the population of each region differently. In this report we highlight each region and discuss existing literature on health evidence, air quality data, disease burden, and air quality management strategies.
URL: https://www.stateofglobalair.org/resources/asia
[2]: The silent killer: over 100 daily deaths of children under … – UNICEF Bangkok,6 February 2025 – As Thailand’s capital,bangkok,grapples with unhealthy levels of air pollution,leading to school closures and widespread health concerns,UNICEF’s latest analysis sheds light on the devastating impact of toxic air across East Asia and the Pacific. Air pollution, which peaks in many parts of the region during the dry season from now until April, is linked to …
URL: https://www.unicef.org/eap/press-releases/silent-killer-air-pollution
[3]: Air pollution measures for Asia and the Pacific Asia Pacific countries display some of the world’s highest recorded levels of air pollution. Over 2.3 billion people in the region are exposed to levels of air pollution several times the WHO guideline for safe air. In 2015, the majority of global deaths from ambient (outdoor) air pollution – 35% – occurred …
ly afford not going out,” he said.
Pakaphol Asavakomolnant, an office worker in Bangkok, said that he wears a mask every day and avoids riding to work on a motorbike. “I get a sore throat when I come to work in the morning and I forget to wear a mask,” he said.
People also need to be aware of indoor air pollution which can often be caused by common household activities like cooking or even burning an incense stick.
Air purifiers can definitely help reduce indoor air pollution,but they have their limitations. They work by pulling air from a room, pushing it through a filter that traps pollutants before circulating it back.
But they’re are most effective when used in small spaces and when people are nearby. Air purifiers can only clean a certain amount of air, said Rajasekhar Balasubramanian, who studies urban air quality at the National University of Singapore. “If we have a tiny air purifier in a large room it won’t be effective,” he said.
Air purifiers are also too expensive for people in many in developing countries.
“The majority of people who are affected by air pollution can’t really afford air purifiers,” said WRI’s Djarum.
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The Devastating Impact of Air Pollution in Asia: A Discussion
Table of Contents
- The Devastating Impact of Air Pollution in Asia: A Discussion
- Dr.Lin, thank you for joining us. To start, could you paint a picture of the current air quality situation across Asia?
- You mentioned the impact on populations. Can you elaborate on who is most vulnerable to these elevated levels of air pollution?
- What are some of the key health impacts associated with prolonged exposure to air pollution?
- are there any specific regional differences in terms of sources of air pollution and the related health impacts?
- What concrete steps can be taken to mitigate this crisis?
- Thank you, Dr. Lin, for your insights on this critical issue. Your perspective sheds light on the urgency of addressing air pollution in asia and the need for collaborative efforts to protect public health.
air pollution in Asia is reaching alarming levels, posing a serious threat to public health and well-being. In this interview, Dr.Mei Lin, a leading expert on environmental health at the World Health Association, discusses the severity of the problem, its impact on vulnerable populations, and potential solutions to mitigate this growing crisis.
Dr.Lin, thank you for joining us. To start, could you paint a picture of the current air quality situation across Asia?
The air quality situation in asia is undeniably concerning. As you know, this region accounts for a large portion of the world’s population, and unfortunately, over 2.3 billion people are exposed to air pollution levels several times higher than what the WHO considers safe. Numerous cities across countries in Central, southeast, and South Asia grapple with severe air pollution problems, often exceeding safe limits by dramatic margins.
You mentioned the impact on populations. Can you elaborate on who is most vulnerable to these elevated levels of air pollution?
Children are especially susceptible to air pollution. Their developing lungs are more sensitive to harmful pollutants. Furthermore, the elderly and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions are also at a heightened risk. In many Asian cities, poverty and crowded living conditions exacerbate the problem, as individuals may be confined to living in close proximity to sources of pollution without adequate ventilation.
What are some of the key health impacts associated with prolonged exposure to air pollution?
Research has conclusively linked air pollution to a wide range of health problems. These include respiratory illnesses like asthma, bronchitis, and lung cancer, and also cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and even premature birth. It’s a silent killer, contributing to millions of premature deaths annually across the region.
Absolutely. Each region in asia has its unique challenges. Industrial emissions,traffic congestion,and agricultural practices are major contributors to air pollution in urban areas across Southeast and Central Asia. In South Asia, the burning of biomass for cooking and heating significantly worsens air pollution levels. These regional variations in sources demand tailored solutions to address the problem effectively.
What concrete steps can be taken to mitigate this crisis?
Multifaceted approaches are essential. This includes promoting cleaner energy sources, improving public transportation systems, implementing stricter emission standards for industries and vehicles, and raising public awareness about air pollution‘s dangers. Investing in lasting urban planning and promoting public health initiatives are crucial for long-term solutions. And in the meantime, individual actions like wearing masks in polluted areas and reducing use of private vehicles can make a difference.
Thank you, Dr. Lin, for your insights on this critical issue. Your perspective sheds light on the urgency of addressing air pollution in asia and the need for collaborative efforts to protect public health.
The interview with dr. Lin highlights the severe consequences of air pollution in Asia, emphasizing the disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations.The global community must prioritize collaborative efforts to reduce emissions, promote sustainable practices, and safeguard the health and well-being of millions.