Breathe now, pay later: Southeast Asia faces huge economic hit from lung disease crisis, warns WHO

Southeast Asia faces rising lung diseases linked to air pollution and climate change, threatening economic growth. PM2.5 pollution is projected to cause a 7–10% increase in premature deaths by 2050, potentially costing the region up to $591 billion. WHO urges urgent action on emissions, cleaner energy, and urban planning to protect public health and economies.