The short-term effects of air pollution on daily mortality in four Australian cities

To examine the short-term health effects of air pollution on daily mortality in four Australian cities (Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney), where more than 50% of Australians reside.

The study used a similar protocol to APHEA2 (Air Pollution and Health: A European Approach) study and derived single-city and pooled estimates.

The results derived from the different approaches for the 1996-99 period showed consistent results for different statistical models used. There were significant effects on total mortality, (RR = 1.0284 per 1 unit increase in nephelometry [10(-4).m(-1)], RR = 1.0011 per 1ppb increase in NO2), and on respiratory mortality (RR = 1.0022 per 1ppb increase in O3). No significant differences between cities were found, but the NO2 and particle effects may refer to the same impacts. Meta-analyses carried out for three cities yielded estimates for the increase in the daily total number of deaths of 0.2% (-0.8% to 1.2%) for a 10 microg/m3 increase in PM10 concentration, and 0.9% (-0.7% to 2.5%) for a 10 microg/m3 increase in PM2.5 concentration.

Air pollutants in Australian cities have significant effects on mortality.