The relationship between air pollution and multimorbidity: Can two birds be killed with the same stone?

Air pollution and multimorbidity are two of the most important challenges for Public Health worldwide. Although there is a large body of evidence linking air pollution with the development of different single chronic conditions, the evidence about the relationship between air pollution and multimorbidity (the co-occurrence of multiple long-term conditions) is sparse. To obtain evidence about this relationship could be challenging and different aspects should be considered, such as its multifaceted and complex nature, the specific pollutants and their potential influence on health, their levels of exposure over time, or the data that could be used for its study. This evidence could be instrumental to inform the development of new recommendations and measures to reduce harmful levels of air pollutants, as means to prevent the development of multimorbidity and reduce its burden.

Automated summary

Air pollution and multimorbidity are important challenges for Public Health worldwide. Although the relationship between air pollution and single chronic conditions is well established, the evidence about the relationship between air pollution and multimorbidity is limited. Obtaining evidence about this relationship is challenging due to its multifaceted and complex nature, specific pollutants, levels of exposure over time, and data availability. This evidence could inform the development of recommendations to reduce harmful levels of air pollutants and prevent the development of multimorbidity.