A recent study reveals a stark increase in mortality risks across all age groups in Indian districts where air pollution exceeds national standards, with newborns facing an 86% higher death risk and children under five facing a 100-120% increased risk. Conducted by researchers including those at the International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai, the study examined fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution across over 700 districts using data from the National Family and Health Survey (fifth round) and the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS).
The study highlights that in households without a separate kitchen, the risk of death is notably higher among newborns and adults. Specifically, the mortality risk for newborns and children under five in districts with PM2.5 levels at the NAAQS limit (40 micrograms per cubic meter) is nearly two-fold and more than two-fold higher, respectively. Furthermore, the study found that the interaction between PM2.5 levels exceeding NAAQS and household air pollution significantly increased mortality rates among newborns by 19%, children by 17%, and adults by 13%.
The findings emphasize the strong link between PM2.5 pollution and mortality across different life stages, particularly when combined with household air pollution. The Indo-Gangetic Plain, known for high PM2.5 levels due to factors like agricultural burning and industrial emissions, is highlighted as a critical area of concern. The study also points out that the use of clean fuel and separate kitchens is particularly low in central India and forest-rich areas like Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and northeastern states, where firewood, crop residue, and animal dung are commonly used as fuel.
Unlike previous studies that focused on regional data, this research integrated pollution levels recorded in cities with district-level death estimates. The study utilized district-level data on PM2.5 pollution from the Greenhouse Gas Air Pollution Interactions and Synergies (GAINS) model developed by the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) in Austria.
The authors stressed the importance of raising awareness in vulnerable regions where clean fuel usage is low, and separate kitchens are uncommon. They argue that while WHO air quality guidelines are essential, Indian policymakers should prioritize reducing PM2.5 emissions to meet NAAQS standards, which could significantly lower disease burden and premature deaths.