Studies on the efficacy of smart policies have been made public. According to research findings, by 2040, intelligent policies could prevent 1.4 million new cases of childhood asthma globally and save 1.9 million lives. In children with childhood asthma, the airways in the lungs become extremely sensitive, resulting in chest tightness and shortness of breath.
Prevention is emphasized because asthma is recognized as a disease that cannot be cured and requires management throughout one’s life. The research team thoroughly examined how different smart policies can improve health in 13,000 urban areas across more than 180 countries.
According to the research team, road traffic emissions are expected to account for about 252,000 new cases of childhood asthma in 2023, representing 20% of all cases nationwide. Implementing the policy in 2023 is anticipated to lead to a 50% reduction in premature deaths and life loss from road traffic emissions in Europe. Additionally, it is projected that between 2023 and 2040, there will be a nearly 70% decrease in the number of new cases of childhood asthma.
The authors noted that while there has been a noticeable decrease in the health burden caused by road traffic emissions in Europe, this outcome is not guaranteed.
They also mentioned the disparities in health effects across age groups and geographical areas.
The researchers emphasized the urgent need to act on these findings to safeguard public health, save lives, enhance the well-being of children, and protect the environment.
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