Delhi's Air Pollution Deadlier Than Major Diseases, Study Finds

Air pollution in New Delhi now causes more deaths annually than two of India's most common health threats, a new study reveals. Toxic air led to approximately 12,000 deaths in the Indian capital each year from 2008 to 2019. This figure surpasses the number of deaths from high blood pressure and diabetes. The research links fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, to heart and lung diseases. The study was conducted by The Lancet Planetary Health journal. Researchers analyzed data from over 3.5 million adults across Delhi and several northern Indian states. They found long-term exposure to PM2.5 significantly increases mortality risk. This microscopic pollution enters the bloodstream through the lungs. The findings highlight a severe and growing public health crisis. They underscore the urgent need for effective air quality policies in heavily polluted regions.