A recent Lancet study has brought to light a grim reality: around 33,000 deaths annually in 10 major Indian cities are attributed to air pollution. Among these cities, Delhi stands out as the most severely affected, witnessing approximately 12,000 deaths each year due to particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution.

PM2.5, particles 2.5 micrometres or smaller in diameter, pose significant health risks by penetrating deep into the lungs and bloodstream. The study found that on 99.8% of days, PM2.5 levels exceeded the World Health Organization’s safe limit of 15 micrograms per cubic metre, underscoring a pervasive public health crisis.

Air pollution, comprising elements like PM2.5, PM10, ozone, sulfur dioxide, and more, contributes to a spectrum of health issues including respiratory ailments, cardiovascular diseases, and even cancer. PM2.5, primarily from vehicular and industrial emissions, emerged as a leading cause of premature mortality, even with short-term exposure proving detrimental.

Long-term inhalation of PM2.5 can lead to chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma exacerbation, bronchitis, and diminished lung function. Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions face heightened risks of heart attacks, irregular heartbeats, and elevated blood pressure upon exposure to PM2.5. Prolonged exposure also escalates the likelihood of developing lung cancer.

Vulnerable populations, such as children with developing respiratory systems and the elderly with weakened immune systems, are disproportionately affected. Emerging research suggests that PM2.5 may also impact cognitive health, adding neurological complications to its list of health risks.

Studies examining PM2.5’s effects on lung immune cells, particularly alveolar macrophages, reveal that exposure weakens their function, impairing the body’s ability to combat infections and clear harmful particles. These findings underscore the complex interplay between air pollution and immune response in respiratory health.

Economically, the health costs associated with long-term exposure to PM2.5 are staggering. Lancet researchers estimate that 56% of global health expenditures linked to fine particulate matter originate from combustion sources, including coal, natural gas, and agricultural waste. Countries like China, India, and the USA bear substantial health burdens, with India alone facing health costs of $126 billion annually due to PM2.5 exposure.

Addressing PM2.5 pollution demands comprehensive strategies to reduce combustion emissions, surpassing air quality improvements alone. By targeting sources like fossil fuels and biofuels, nations can achieve significant health benefits alongside climate mitigation, underscoring the imperative of integrated environmental policies.