Long-term exposure to dirty air associated with higher risk of lung infection hospitalizations

A large-scale Spanish study involving nearly four million people has found that long-term exposure to air pollution—even at low levels—is linked to increased hospitalizations for lower respiratory infections (LRIs), especially among older adults. Conducted in Catalonia over five years, the study connected air pollution to 94,000 hospital admissions for infections such as flu and pneumonia.

Men living in highly polluted areas faced a 50% higher risk of hospitalization, particularly those with pre-existing conditions like hypertension. Key pollutants identified were fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide, common byproducts of diesel and fossil gas combustion. The research revealed that even pollution levels within legal limits were associated with significant health impacts.

These findings add to growing evidence that air pollution doesn’t just aggravate chronic conditions but also weakens the body’s defenses, increasing vulnerability to infections—especially during colder months when respiratory illness spikes. The study challenges the adequacy of current air quality standards.

07-04-2025