Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Annalisa Merelli
Published on 2024-03-06 05:01:46
The United States has been successful in reducing the public health impact of air pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) between 2010 and 2019. A recent study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspective revealed a decrease in deaths and diseases related to these pollutants during this time period. Deaths attributed to PM2.5 dropped by almost a third, from 69,000 to 49,500, while new cases of pediatric asthma linked to NO2 decreased by nearly 40%, from 191,000 to 115,000.
However, the study also highlighted disparities in the impact of air pollution on different demographic groups. The relative gap in mortality and morbidity between non-Hispanic whites and other ethnic and racial groups increased. For example, the difference in pediatric asthma cases attributed to air pollution between the least and most white communities increased by almost 20%. Similarly, racial disparities in deaths caused by fine particulate matter rose by 16%.
Researchers were surprised by these findings, especially considering the overall improvements in air quality across the country. While asthma cases decreased in most regions, they increased in the South, particularly in lower-income communities with more ethnic and racial diversity. These areas are often closer to sources of air pollution, exacerbating the health outcomes for the residents.
Historical redlining practices have contributed to these disparities, as industries with high pollution levels tend to be located in or near disadvantaged communities. This clustering of pollution sources around vulnerable populations can have serious health consequences, as noted by experts like Cesunica Ivey from the University of California, Berkeley.
To address these disparities, the study suggests implementing more localized regulations to control emissions and reduce air pollution in heavily affected areas. Instead of enforcing a uniform threshold nationwide, the researchers recommend a place-based approach that considers the specific challenges faced by communities with higher pollution levels.
Ivey proposes amending the Clean Air Act to account for cumulative impacts from long-term exposure to nearby pollution sources. This amendment could establish stricter pollution limits in at-risk areas and require industries to take responsibility for reducing their impact on the surrounding communities through measures like home renovations to improve indoor air quality.
While reducing air pollution is crucial for public health, addressing the underlying socioeconomic inequalities is essential to eliminate health disparities. As lead author Gaige Kerr pointed out, simply eliminating air pollution may not be sufficient if other factors such as poor nutrition, limited access to healthcare, and inadequate housing are not addressed.
In conclusion, the study underscores the need for targeted interventions and policies to reduce the health disparities caused by air pollution. By adopting a more localized and inclusive approach to air quality regulation, policymakers can work towards creating healthier environments for all communities, especially those most impacted by pollution.
