Household Air Pollution and Associated Health Effects in Low and Middle Income Countries

The term “air pollution” is often used in reference to the state of the ambient air quality. However, both acute and chronic exposure to indoor or household air pollution (HAP) is associated with various adverse health effects, particularly related to cardiorespiratory outcomes. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), about 90% of rural household use solid-fuel, majority in traditional inefficient cookstove without adequate ventilation resulting in exposure to very high HAP. In this article, we highlight the sources, composition, and currently known major health effects associated to exposure to HAP where indoor air quality is often foregone for cheaper fuel sources and inefficient combustion techniques. We briefly summarize the approaches required in attempting to manage the burden of HAP exposure in LMICs and recommend the relevant policy considerations.