Countries in the Middle East are facing a severe health crisis due to dangerously high levels of air pollution particles, leading to millions of deaths globally each year. According to a new report by the World Heart Foundation (WHF), Kuwait, Egypt, and Afghanistan have the highest concentrations of particles less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter (PM2.5), exceeding the recommended maximum levels by more than 12 times.
The WHO recommends that countries do not exceed 5 micrograms of PM2.5 per cubic meter, but in Kuwait, Egypt, and Afghanistan, the levels are alarmingly high at 64.1 µg/m³, 63.2 µg/m³, and 62.5 µg/m³, respectively. This has led to almost 7 million deaths globally in 2019 attributed to air pollution, surpassing the mortality toll of all wars, malaria, tuberculosis, HIV, and other infectious diseases combined.
Dr. Mark Miller, chair of the Air Pollution and Climate Change Expert Group at the University of Edinburgh and WHF, highlighted the impact of air pollution on the cardiovascular system, emphasizing the role of inflammation in causing health complications. The particles in the air can be smaller than viruses, penetrating the lungs and entering the bloodstream, affecting various organs in the body.
The report also warned of a significant increase in deaths from cardiovascular conditions related to air pollution over the past decade, with a rise of up to 27% in some regions. In the Eastern Mediterranean region, including Kuwait, Egypt, Afghanistan, and the UAE, air pollution led to 47,000 more deaths in 2019 compared to 2010.
Furthermore, researchers have discovered a link between air pollution, stress, and depression, indicating that individuals living in areas with poor air quality are at a higher risk of heart disease. Countries with higher PM2.5 concentrations were found to report more poor mental health days, leading to a three-fold increase in premature cardiovascular mortality.
In response to the alarming findings, the UAE has announced plans to improve air quality, reduce noise pollution, and hold industries accountable for their environmental impact. The Environment Agency Abu Dhabi will monitor air pollutant levels to ensure they do not exceed maximum limits as part of a comprehensive environmental monitoring network.
As the world grapples with the devastating effects of air pollution on public health, urgent action is needed to address this global crisis and protect the well-being of populations worldwide.