The effect of air pollution (PM2.5) and green spaces availability on healthy ageing in the Western Pacific Region

Abstract

Background: While air pollution, specifically PM2.5 particulate concentration, is a leading contributor to an estimated 4.2 million premature deaths annually, access to urban green spaces is vital in mitigating the detrimental effects of air pollution and enhancing public health. Yet, the interplay of PM2.5 and green space availability on health-adjusted life expectancy (HALE) is unclear in the Western Pacific Region (WPRO) characterised by rapid population ageing and a high burden of air pollution-related deaths. Methods: This study employed a population-based approach and analysed data from 21 countries in the Western Pacific Region (WPRO) using data from the databases of the WHO and the United Nations. One-way ANOVA and linear regression analysis were used to evaluate the influence of PM2.5 particulate concentration and green space factors on different data year groups of HALE at age 60. Results: All WPRO countries exceeded the WHO’s recommended annual mean air quality guideline of 5 μg/m³. For all countries in the region, PM2.5 particulate concentration had a strong significantly negative influence on HALE at age 60, while green space availability had a moderately positive influence on HALE at age 60. However, the extent of association varied across various countries in the region. Conclusions: The findings indicate that more ambitious air pollution control policies are warranted, particularly in high-polluting nations. Simultaneously, increasing access to green spaces through urban planning and environmental preservation appears to be an important complementary strategy for promoting healthy ageing in the WPRO. While all WPRO countries require action, income-specific strategies are critical for the countries.