Global air pollution kills 2000 under-5 kids every day
Air pollution is now the second-largest cause of death for children under five globally, according to a new report.
Released by the Health Effects Institute or HEI and UNICEF, the State of Global Air report highlights nearly 2,000 deaths daily among young children due to toxic fumes.
The report underscores that children in the Global South are most vulnerable, facing a mortality risk 100 times higher than their peers in wealthier nations.
In 2021, air pollution ranked just below malnutrition as a leading cause of death for young children, surpassing even poor sanitation and lack of clean water.
Wealthy countries including the U.S. are also affected by ozone pollution, which can be heightened by high temperatures.
In 2021, nearly 50% of all ozone-related chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) deaths were in India.
As many as 237,000 deaths were reported from India followed by China with 125,600 deaths and Bangladesh 15,000 deaths.
Urgent calls have been made for policy changes to prioritize air quality and reduce pollution’s health impacts.
The report urges global action to curb emissions and protect children’s health.
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