In recent years, the global focus on climate change and environmental sustainability has shed light on a critical yet often overlooked issue: air pollution.

While its impacts on the environment are well documented, the health consequences of air pollution, particularly its contribution to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), are becoming increasingly evident.

Air pollution, characterised by the presence of harmful substances in the atmosphere, poses a significant risk to human health. Pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone (O3) infiltrate our lungs and bloodstream, leading to a range of chronic health conditions.

“Air pollution is contributing to the growing numbers of non-communicable diseases. The burden of these diseases is going to increase if we don’t reduce the levels of air pollution,” says Dr Catherine Karekezi, Executive Director, of Non-communicable Diseases Alliance Kenya.

One of the most alarming effects of air pollution, she says is its association with cardiovascular diseases. Studies have shown that long-term exposure to polluted air can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and hypertension.

Pollutants can cause inflammation and oxidative stress, damaging blood vessels and elevating the likelihood of heart-related ailments.

Apart from that air pollution is a major contributor to respiratory diseases. Pollutants, such as PM2.5 and NO2 can exacerbate asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, leading to more severe symptoms and reduced lung function. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable, as polluted air can trigger flare-ups and worsen their overall health.

“The link between air pollution and cancer is another grave concern. Carcinogenic pollutants, such as benzene and formaldehyde have been identified as risk factors for lung cancer and other malignancies. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified outdoor air pollution as a Group 1 carcinogen, underscoring the need for urgent action.”

Globally, according to the World Health Organisation, 3.8 million premature deaths are reported annually from no communicable diseases. According to UNEP, ambient air pollution was estimated to cause close to 400,000 premature deaths in Africa alone in 2019, while indoor air pollution caused more than one million premature deaths.

Kenya is no exception. As a country, we are witnessing the severe health impacts of air pollution. In urban areas, such as Nairobi, the situation is particularly alarming. Every day, thousands of Kenyans are exposed to air that poses significant risks to their health and well-being.

The clean air quality in the city is at 15 per cent, compared to the recommended five per cent by the WHO.

“Respiratory and cardiovascular diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, strokes and lung cancer are becoming more prevalent, especially among our children, the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions. These diseases are all attributable in part to the quality of the air we breathe,” says Dr Festus Ng’eno, Principal Secretary, State Department for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry.

He added; “air pollution also places a tremendous burden on our health system, and the economic cost of lost productivity, health care expenses, and reduced quality of life is staggering.”

To tackle this growing crisis, the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, in collaboration with Nairobi City County, USAID, and the World Resources Institute, has launched two new air quality monitoring sites(pictured) in Nairobi. The sites, located at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital and Nairobi Fire Station along Tom Mboya Street aim to provide essential data on air quality, especially concerning pollutants from waste burning and public transport.

 The fire station site is mainly aimed at monitoring the contribution of vehicles in Nairobi air pollution while Mama Lucy Kibaki hospital site will be monitoring the mixed sources including, household energy use, open waste burning and other minor sources.

“If we do not take decisive action, these impacts will only worsen, straining our public services and further compromising the health of our population. The establishment of these regulatory air quality monitoring sites represents a crucial step in our mission to improve the quality of life for Nairobi’s residents,” he said.

By providing accurate, real-time data on air quality, he said these monitoring sites will serve as the foundation upon which the country will build more effective policies and interventions. The reason is, with reliable data, the government will be better positioned to identify pollution hotspots, track pollution trends, and take swift action to reduce harmful emissions.

Dr George Mwaniki, Head of Air Quality and Country Director at the World Resources Institute, says that since addressing air pollution effectively requires a comprehensive monitoring strategy, the Clean Air Catalyst project is set to install another 37 low-cost air quality monitors over the next few months to enhance the city’s ability to manage air quality and reduce pollution levels. These monitors will be strategically positioned throughout the city, with the goal of covering every ward.

“Air quality monitors play a critical role in driving clean air action by providing evidence on air pollution levels, identify sources of pollution, raising awareness, informing policy, and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions,” says Mwaniki.