Air pollution in Kosovo estimated to cause 835 premature deaths annually

The quality of air continues to be unhealthy even at these evening hours in many Kosovo cities.

The most polluted cities tonight are Mitrovica, Gjilan, Peja and Pristina.

According to measurements presented by the American Embassy, the air situation is Mitrovica, with 152 degree of pollution, Gjilani 152, Peja 150 and Pristina 143.

Air monitoring is done through measurements set at various points in Kosovo.

Air quality monitor measures particles at every hour, including dust, mud, soot, smoke, and liquid.

Such particles may be the result of emissions of gases from vehicles and thermal plants, from burning coal or wood, or live events like fires on top and may remain suspended in the air for long periods of time.

The particles of this size, about 1/30 of the average diameter of human hair, pose the greatest health risk. Scientific studies have linked long - term pollution from particles, especially fine particles, to serious health problems, such as heart and lung disease.

Air pollution causes 9 million deaths in the world each year, which equals one quarter of total death.

Globally, the mortality due to air pollution amounts to up to 120 deaths in 100,000 people, while at the European level that number is up to 133 deaths in 100,000.

Air pollution in Kosovo is estimated to be the cause of 835 premature deaths annually.

Other effects of air pollution in Kosovo include acute respiratory diseases, worsening the condition of heart patients and asthma patients, cancer caused directly by polluting, inciting eye or nose irritations, as well as stress and loss of overall prosperity.