Environmental pollution killing more people than war, study says

Summary

A recent study published in The Lancet reveals that environmental pollution was responsible for approximately 9 million deaths in 2015, significantly more than deaths from war and violence. The research highlights the severe health impacts of air pollution, particularly in developing countries like China and India, where chronic diseases such as heart disease and lung cancer are prevalent. Despite progress in reducing pollution, with a 70% decrease in the U.S. since the Clean Air Act, the report emphasizes the need for continued efforts to combat pollution, which can improve public health and boost economic productivity.

Takeaways

• 😀 Environmental pollution contributed to the deaths of about 9 million people in 2015, a number 15 times higher than deaths caused by war and violence.
• 😀 A study published in *The Lancet* highlights the devastating impact of pollution on global health.
• 😀 Chelsea Yamada, a New Yorker, is part of a multi-year study measuring cyclists' exposure to air pollution during their commutes.
• 😀 The study found that air pollution hotspots significantly affect cyclists' health, especially when trapped behind vehicle tailpipes.
• 😀 Despite efforts to reduce pollution, a major report reveals more needs to be done to combat its health impacts.
• 😀 The report indicates that more people die from exposure to dirty air than from obesity, alcohol consumption, or high sodium diets.
• 😀 Dr. Philip Landrigan from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai notes that most pollution-related deaths are caused by chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer.
• 😀 Nearly 92% of pollution-related deaths occur in developing countries, with China and India being the most affected.
• 😀 Children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of pollution.
• 😀 In the U.S., pollution kills an estimated 155,000 people annually, but efforts like the Clean Air Act have reduced air pollution by 70% over the past 45 years.
• 😀 The success of the Clean Air Act shows that controlling pollution can also boost economic prosperity, as evidenced by a 250% increase in the U.S. GDP since its enactment.

Q & A

What was the main finding of the study published in The Lancet regarding environmental pollution?

The study found that environmental pollution contributed to the deaths of about 9 million people in 2015, which is nearly 15 times more deaths than from war and violence.

Who is Chelsea Yamada and what is she doing in the report?

Chelsea Yamada is a New Yorker who is part of a multi-year study measuring her exposure to air pollution while commuting, using a special vest.

What specific health impacts are linked to air pollution according to the report?

The report links air pollution to chronic diseases, particularly heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive lung disease.

Which countries were found to be most affected by pollution-related deaths?

The study indicates that nearly 92% of pollution-related deaths occurred in developing countries, with China and India being the most affected.

How does pollution affect children specifically?

Children are identified as being at the highest risk for health issues related to pollution exposure.

What is the estimated number of pollution-related deaths in the US each year?

In the US, pollution is estimated to kill about 155,000 people annually.

What progress has been made in the US regarding air pollution since the Clean Air Act?

Since the Clean Air Act was passed, air pollution in the US has dropped by 70%.

What economic benefits are associated with pollution control measures?

Pollution control measures can save money by preventing illness, extending life, and enhancing economic productivity.

How has the US Gross Domestic Product (GDP) changed since the Clean Air Act was enacted?

The US GDP has increased by 250% since the Clean Air Act was implemented in 1970.

What does Dr. Philip Landrigan suggest about the relationship between wealth and clean air?

Dr. Landrigan suggests that countries can achieve both wealth and prosperity while maintaining clean air, as demonstrated by the US's experience post-Clean Air Act.