Bhubaneswar: Air pollution, mainly in metro cities like Delhi, is inflicting significant financial costs on people and the economy, besides taking a heavy toll on public health, revealed a recent study.

The findings of the study were published in the Lance Planetary Health Journal some days ago.

The study that analysed data from 2008 to 2019 reveals that approximately 7.2 per cent of all deaths in India can be attributed to daily exposure to PM2.5, fine particulate matter that poses serious health risks.

Delhi, one on the most polluted cities in the world, recorded the highest number of pollution-related deaths at around 12,000 per year in between 2008 and 2019.

This air pollution has severe financial implications. The study claims that the air pollution, particularly the PM2.5 concentration, increased health costs per capita by $ 40, baseline mortality by $ 38 and source structure by $ 34.

The above said figures reveal the hidden economic burden of air pollution on people, mainly in the form of rise in medical expenses and lost productivity.

The health implications of air pollution are far-ranging and costly. Respiratory diseases and cardiovascular problems among other health issues have been linked to prolonged exposure to high levels of PM2.5.

Children are more vulnerable to air pollution. Many of them may experience respiratory issues and other health complications.

Besides, the study claimed that reduced visibility due to smog can disrupt transportation and commerce while poor air quality can hamper tourism and investment in affected areas.

The findings of the study put emphasis on comprehensive measures to address air pollution in the country.