Rising Global Mortality: The Dual Threat of Air Pollution and Extreme Temperatures

**A recent study** conducted by the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry and an international team of researchers highlights the significant rise in mortality rates due to **air pollution** and **extreme temperatures** by the end of the 21st century. **Numerical simulations** project that global deaths from these factors could reach 30 million annually, with a seven-fold increase in temperature-related deaths and a five-fold increase in air pollution-related deaths. **Regional analysis** shows that South and East Asia will likely face the most severe impacts due to aging populations and persistent pollution issues. In high-income areas like Western Europe and North America, **temperature-related deaths** will soon surpass those due to air pollution, a shift already observed in some countries. The study urges for **comprehensive actions** to mitigate the growing public health risks posed by climate change, emphasizing that climate change is not only an environmental concern but poses a direct threat to human health. Researchers stress the need for **decisive mitigation measures** to prevent future loss of life.