How Indoor and Outdoor Air Pollution Raises the Risk of Death and Hospitalisation in African Kids under Five
Table of Contents Introduction How the Study Worked Key Findings What We Still Don’t Know Why It Matters Disclaimer Acknowledgements Introduction Air pollution is often seen as an urban problem, but in much of sub-Saharan Africa, the air inside homes can be just as dangerous as outdoor smog. Smoke from traditional cooking fuels like wood, charcoal, or coal can linger indoors, while tiny airborne particles (PM₂.₅) from traffic and industry drift through cities and villages. For children under five, these invisible pollutants can be deadly, increasing the risk of respiratory infections, hospitalization, and even death. This article explores a major new systematic review and meta-analysis that examined how indoor and outdoor air pollution affects young children across sub-Saharan Africa, highlighting the real-world risks and what can be done to protect kids. How the Study Worked The researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-an...