Health impacts of air pollution

Ambient air pollution can have direct and sometimes severe consequences on health. Fine particles, which penetrate deep into the respiratory tract, subsequently increase mortality from respiratory infections, lung cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Chronic respiratory diseases are among the most important causes of morbidity and mortality; such diseases constitute a very serious social and economic burden. Premature deaths due to chronic exposure to particulate matter occur every year. In 2016, 36 698 deaths due to ambient air pollution occurred in Turkey. The Ministry of Health plans to carry out project studies aiming to determine the burden of disease and economic losses caused by air pollution, to contribute to the effective use of resources in planning and decision-making processes and to improve the quality of life. In order to protect public health, especially vulnerable groups, the Ministry of Health carries out information activities to raise public awareness on air pollution and develops relevant health policies. The Ministry of Health also regularly monitors carbon monoxide poisoning and raises public awareness on the subject.