Air pollution and global health: Need to prioritize alongside tobacco control.

Air pollution is the second leading cause of preventable deaths worldwide, with an estimated 6.7 million deaths per year, compared to 9 million deaths from tobacco smoking. The number of deaths due to air pollution is increasing, particularly in low- and middle-income countries in the Asia Pacific region. While indoor air pollution is decreasing, outdoor air pollution is on the rise due to urbanization, population growth, and increased use of motor vehicles. Air pollution is closely linked to global warming, as both result from fossil fuel burning. It is responsible for approximately 20% of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and cardiovascular deaths worldwide. Additionally, air pollution has adverse effects on infant birthweight, neurodevelopment in children, and neurodegenerative disorders in adults. The burden of disease caused by air pollution is often unrecognized, as it is a lifelong and pervasive exposure affecting entire populations. Strategies to reduce air pollution include enforcing air quality standards, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and implementing restrictions on polluting fuels in homes, transport, and industry. However, political obstacles and industry lobbying hinder progress in air pollution prevention. The medical profession, particularly the Asia Pacific Society of Respirology, should advocate for air pollution reduction measures to be prioritized alongside tobacco control to achieve significant health benefits and address climate change. [Extracted from the article]