"Uncovering the Hidden Link: Pollution's Connection to Brain Damage and Cancer"

PM2.5 pollution, a type of fine particulate matter, is estimated to cause nearly nine million premature deaths globally each year, with more than 90% of the world’s population living in places where air pollution exceeds WHO guidelines. This pollution is linked to serious health issues including cancer, altered brain development in children, stroke, heart disease, and respiratory infections. Surprisingly, wood burners contribute significantly to air pollution in Western cities. However, low-cost actions and the WHO's lowered standard for acceptable levels of fine particulate matter pollution are steps in the right direction to combat this global public health emergency.