The Burden of Cardiovascular Disease from Air Pollution in Rwanda

Area of Science:

• Environmental health
• Epidemiology
• Public health

Background:

• Rwanda faces an epidemiological transition, with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like cardiovascular disease (CVD) becoming more prevalent due to environmental hazards.
• Industrialization and urbanization drive economic growth but increase exposure to pollutants from vehicles and occupational sources.
• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a growing cause of mortality in Rwanda, with ambient air pollution identified as a significant risk factor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the burden of CVD attributable to air pollution in Rwanda.
• To identify prevention and control strategies for air pollution and related diseases.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study for air pollution levels, sources, trends, and disease burden in Rwanda.
• Incorporated information on pollution sources from the Health Effects Institute State of Global Air 2019 report.

Main Results:

• In 2019, an estimated 3,477 deaths in Rwanda were linked to air pollution-related CVD.
• Household air pollution accounted for 2,788 deaths, while ambient air pollution was associated with 689 deaths.

Conclusions:

• Economic development in Rwanda is associated with increased NCDs, including CVD.
• While household air pollution remains a major concern, rising ambient air pollution is an escalating risk factor for CVD.
• Urgent actions to reduce ambient air pollution, including a transition to renewable energy, are recommended to improve health and economic outcomes.