Mortality and Health Losses From Diseases Attributable to Air Pollution in Ethiopia, From 1990 to 2023
Embay Amare Alemseged, Wolyu Korma, Mihretu Tagesse Sergindo, Anteneh Berhane, Angefa Ayele, Lechisa Asefa, Degefa Dhengesu Hero, Gedeno Karbana, Yonas Angaw, Sebsibe TadesseBackground
Air pollution is a major environmental determinant of mortality and morbidity worldwide and contributes substantially to non-communicable and chronic respiratory diseases. In Ethiopia, exposure to ambient particulate matter and household air pollution from solid fuel use remains a critical public health concern. Quantifying the national and subnational health burden attributable to air pollution is essential for informing effective policies and interventions.
Methods
This study employed the standardized methods, analytical procedures, and estimation tools of the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2023.
Results
Nationally, there was an estimated 139 deaths per 100,000 population (95% UI: 106–177), 271 YLDs per 100,000 population (95% UI: 171, 376), 4286 YLLs per 100,000 population (95% UI: 3475, 5107), and 4557 DALYs per 100,000 population (95% UI: 3685, 5397) in 2023. The YLDs were largely driven by household solid fuels [247 YLDs per 100,000 population (95% UI: 152, 344)]. Notable regional variations emerged: Addis Ababa experienced the highest ambient particulate matter mortality [64 deaths per 100,000 (95% UI: 43–88)] but the lowest household air pollution deaths [59 deaths per 100,000 (95% UI: 40–82)], whereas Afar recorded the highest overall mortality [185 deaths per 100,000 (95% UI: 137–232)] and YLL rates [5,964 YLLs per 100,000 (95% UI: 4,559–7,375)]. Older adults bore the heaviest burden. Although mortality levels remained relatively stable from 1990 to 2023, the rates of YLDs, YLLs, and DALYs declined nationally and in most parts of the country.
Conclusion
Air pollution continued to impose a considerable health burden in Ethiopia, with pronounced age and regional disparities. Integrated interventions addressing urban emissions and household solid fuel use are urgently needed. The study provided granular evidence that support air-quality policies and public health planning.