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WHO/Europe works to make sure that the available evidence on the health risks of air pollution is used in public debate and in policy-making. This includes:

• reviewing the scientific evidence on the health effects of air pollution;
• developing methods to quantify the health risks;
• helping countries to build capacity to assess these risks and to develop sustainable policies on air quality;
• providing guidance, such as the WHO guidelines for outdoor and indoor air quality; and
• supporting the implementation of international legal instruments such as United Nations Convention on Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution.

Air pollution and health

The air we breathe contains emissions from motor vehicles, industry, heating and commercial sources, as well as tobacco smoke and household fuels. Air pollution harms human health, particularly in those already vulnerable because of their age or existing health problems.

Evidence shows that air pollution at current levels in European cities is responsible for a significant burden of deaths, hospital admissions and exacerbation of symptoms, especially for cardiorespiratory disease. Exposure to air pollutants is largely beyond individuals’ control and requires action by public authorities at the national, regional and even international levels.

While the hazardous properties of many common pollutants are still under intensive research, evidence-based policies demonstrate that health protection is possible and effective. For example, phasing out leaded petrol decreases blood lead levels in children and reduces their risk for impaired neurobehavioural development. Controlling air pollution, both indoor and outdoor, can significantly prevent diseases.