Study Links Dhaka’s PM2.5 to Thousands of Early Deaths Annually

A research team from Jagannath University’s Department of Public Health and Informatics released a comprehensive analysis of fine‑particulate pollution in Bangladesh’s six largest cities. The study, which spanned 2013‑2021, focused on PM2.5 – particles small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream.

According to the report, Dhaka, along with Chattogram, Rajshahi, Khulna, Sylhet and Barishal, experiences roughly 242 premature deaths each day due to PM2.5 exposure. This translates to an annual toll of about 88,240 lives in Dhaka alone, or approximately 260 deaths per 100,000 residents.

Economically, the health burden amounts to an estimated loss of US$23 billion each year for Bangladesh, stemming from medical costs, lost productivity and reduced quality of life. The study’s authors attribute the high mortality rate to chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer and severe respiratory infections – all of which are aggravated by fine particulate pollution.

The findings reinforce World Health Organization data that indicate 99 percent of the global population breathes air exceeding safe limits, with low‑ and middle‑income countries bearing the greatest impact.

Policy makers are urged to implement stricter emission controls, expand green infrastructure and promote public awareness to mitigate the health and economic repercussions of air pollution in Dhaka and the rest of the country.