Estimating disease burden attributable to household air pollution: new methods within the Global Burden of Disease Study

BackgroundDespite a substantial reduction in the use of solid fuels worldwide, exposure to household air pollution (HAP) from these for cooking remains leading risk factor global disease burden. Among environmental factors, contribution HAP burden is second only ambient particulate matter pollution. We present updates our modeling methodology as well latest findings on attributable estimates.MethodsWe estimated HAP-attributable cataract, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, ischaemic heart lower respiratory infections, lung cancer, neonatal disorders, stroke, and type 2 diabetes 204 countries territories 1990 2019. used spatio-temporal Gaussian Process Regression model data observational surveys censuses reporting primary fuel estimate proportion individuals using specific solid-fuel (wood, coal/charcoal, agricultural residues, or dung) by location. converted estimates year, location, sex/age-specific PM2·5 exposures with regression mapping function measurements. Using Bayesian meta-regression tool, we relative each based upon systematic review epidemiological literature indoor then combined risks population fractions cause.FindingsIn 2019, 91·5 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) (95% uncertainty interval 67·0–119) were HAP, decline more than 50% 1990. 2·31 (1·63–3·12) deaths accounted over 4% all highest sub-Saharan Africa south Asia, 3770·3 (2876·4–4720·2) 2068·0 (1412·5–2799·7) age-standardised DALYs per 100 000 population, respectively.InterpretationAlthough decreased considerably between it significant factor. Our internally consistent comprehensive approach estimation provides robust resource health interventions. Efforts transition cleaner energy sources should be accelerated.FundingBill & Melinda Gates Foundation.