Health impact of PM10 and ozone in 13 Italian cities

An average of 8220 deaths a year in 13 Italian cities are attributable to PM10 concentrations above 20 mg/m3. This corresponds to 9% of the mortality for all causes (excluding accidents) in the population over 30 years of age.

The magnitude of the estimated impact underscores the need for urgent action to reduce the health burden of air pollution. Compliance with European Union legislation can result in substantial savings in terms of ill health avoided.