Exposure to outdoor air pollution
Situation at country level
Exposure to particulate matter increases the risk of cardiopulmonary conditions, acute and chronic respiratory infections and lung cancer. The annual mean concentration of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 10 μm or less (PM10) in the countries' urban population was estimated on the basis of measurements in cities within the countries. The reported country averages rely on measurements for the years 2003–2010, with the great majority for the years 2008 and 2009. They range from 11 to over 100 µg/m3.
Situation at city level
Exposure to particulate matter increases the risk of many chronic and acute respiratory conditions in children and adults. 1100 cities have reported annual mean concentrations of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 10 μm or less (PM10), many of which exceed WHO's Air Quality Guideline values. Reported pollution levels were measurements during the years 2003–2010, with the great majority during the years 2008 and 2009.