Submission ID 130587
| Issue/Objective | Air pollution remains a leading environmental risk factor for disease in Canada, contributing to an estimated 15,000 premature deaths annually. Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅) is associated with cardiovascular disease, respiratory illness, and lung cancer. However, exposure is not evenly distributed, low-income, racialized, and Indigenous communities are more likely to live near major roadways, industrial zones, and other pollution sources. These patterns reflect structural inequities in urban planning, environmental regulation, and land use policy. This study examines air pollution as an upstream determinant of health inequities in Canada, focusing on governance and policy drivers. |
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| Methodology/Approach | A systematic review of peer-reviewed and grey literature (2010-2025) was conducted across MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus, alongside Canadian environmental health reports. Studies examining air pollution exposure, health outcomes, and population disparities were included. PRISMA guidelines were followed with dual screening. Narrative synthesis and thematic analysis focused on structural and policy determinants. |
| Results | Sixty-five studies met inclusion criteria. Higher exposure to PM₂.₅ and NO₂ was consistently associated with increased rates of cardiovascular and respiratory morbidity and mortality. Disparities were evident across socioeconomic and racial groups, with marginalized populations experiencing higher exposure and worse health outcomes. Key drivers included zoning policies, proximity to industrial emissions, and inadequate regulatory enforcement. While air quality regulations have improved overall pollution levels, inequities in exposure persist. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | Air pollution in Canada is both an environmental and equity issue shaped by policy and governance decisions. Addressing these disparities requires stronger regulatory enforcement, equitable urban planning, and targeted interventions in high-risk communities. Aligning with Sub-theme 1, this study highlights how structural determinants drive unequal health burdens. |
| Presenters and Affiliations | Timilehin Taiwo Olaleye Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Damilare Adetona LADOKE AKINTOLA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY Fredrick Akinyosoye Delaware Department of Health and Social Services Wuraola Awosan Liberty University Tawakalt Bashir Ladoke Akintola University of Technology |
