Global deaths caused by air pollution 2021, by country
China and India saw the largest number of air pollution-related deaths worldwide in 2021, with more than two million recorded in each. Together, the world's two most populous countries accounted for approximately 55 percent of global deaths from diseases linked to air pollution that year.
Health effects of air pollution
There are a number of health impacts linked to air pollution. These range from milder symptoms like sore throats and irritated eyes, to more serious effects that increase the risk of premature mortality, including strokes, heart disease, and lung cancer.
Where is air pollution highest?
In 2023, the world's most polluted countries based on PM2.5 concentrations were Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India, with average levels in each country more than 10 times above World Health Organization (WHO) recommended guidelines. That year, 21 of the 25 world’s most polluted cities were in India, with annual PM2.5 levels in the most polluted city averaging more than 20 times above WHO limits.
