Abstract

Air pollution is a major environmental risk factor for increased morbidity and mortality worldwide. LMICs bear a disproportionate burden of ambient and household air pollution. High exposure to air pollution, unhealthy lifestyles, and other social, economic and demographic factors that can affect a population's health status and vulnerability are some of the reasons for increased mortality in LMICs. As a result, 91% of premature deaths attributable to ambient air pollution occur in LMICs. Similarly, household air pollution is a major problem in LMICs, particularly in rural areas with limited access to clean domestic energy. Both acute and long-term exposure to air pollution leads to adverse health outcomes, mainly respiratory and cardiovascular effects. The impact of air pollution exposure also extends to the neurological, reproductive and immune systems. The major causes of mortality include ischaemic heart disease and stroke, respiratory infection, COPD and lung cancer. Other causes of morbidity include other cancers, diabetes and birth disorders.

Cite as: Aithal SS, Bhargava V, Adekoya A, et al. Air quality in low- and middle-income countries: what is the impact on respiratory morbidity and mortality? In: Sinha IP, Lee A, Katikireddi SV, et al., eds. Inequalities in Respiratory Health (ERS Monograph). Sheffield, European Respiratory Society, 2023; pp. 203–213 [https://doi.org/10.1183/2312508X.10005122].