Air pollution leading cause of death in Delhi: Study
What's the story
Air pollution has emerged as the biggest health risk for residents of Delhi, accounting for nearly 15% of all deaths in the city in 2023. According to an analysis of the latest Global Burden of Disease (GBD) data by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), one in every seven deaths was associated with polluted air. The study estimated that ambient particulate matter pollution was responsible for around 17,188 deaths this year alone.
Rising toll
Pollution-related deaths up from 15,786 in 2018
The data also revealed that pollution-related deaths in Delhi have increased from 15,786 in 2018 to 17,188 in 2023. Other major health risk factors included high blood pressure (14,874 deaths), high fasting plasma glucose or diabetes (10,653 deaths), high cholesterol (7,267 deaths), and high body mass index (6,698 deaths). Despite fluctuations over the years, pollution-related fatalities have remained consistently high in Delhi.
Health impact
Health burden from pollution-related diseases to grow
According to PTI, Manoj Kumar, an analyst at the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), stressed that air pollution is a public health crisis requiring science-based action across polluting sectors. He warned that without significant improvements in Delhi's air quality, the health burden from pollution-related diseases will continue to grow. Prolonged exposure to polluted air can lead to lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and reduced overall lung capacity.
Organ impact
Air quality impacts several organs, systems
Dr Neetu Jain, a senior consultant at PSRI Hospital, explained that air pollution impacts several organs and systems in the body. It increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, hypertension, and diabetes. There is also some evidence to suggest it can worsen autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. The study highlights how severely air quality continues to affect the health and longevity of Delhi's residents.