Power Plants and Public Health: A Review of Mortality Risks from Air Pollutants

Purpose: Coal-fired power plants are major sources of ambient air pollution, emitting fine particulate matter (PM₂.۵), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), heavy metals, and other toxic pollutants. Exposure to these emissions has been linked to increased risks of cardiovascular and respiratory mortality, hospitalizations, and chronic disease. This review aims to synthesize the current evidence on the health impacts of coal-fired power plant emissions, with a focus on mortality, geographic variability, population disparities, and policy implications. Methods: We reviewed health impact assessments, population-based cohort studies, burden-of-disease analyses, and methodological protocols examining the relationship between coal power plant emissions and adverse health outcomes. Studies from diverse geographic regions, including Turkey, India, and the United States, were considered. Quantitative modeling approaches, such as chemical transport models, exposure-response functions, and hazard models, were examined to evaluate pollutant-specific health impacts. Results: Evidence consistently demonstrates that emissions from coal-fired power plants significantly contribute to premature mortality and morbidity. Fine particulate matter, SO₂, NOₓ, and heavy metals were linked to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, neurodevelopmental toxicity, and cancer. Dose–response relationships between pollutant exposure and excess deaths were observed in multiple settings. The health burden is disproportionately borne by low-income and socially vulnerable populations. International financing of coal plants further transfers health risks to low- and middle-income countries. Mitigation strategies, including advanced emission controls, stricter air quality standards, and transitions to cleaner energy sources, can substantially reduce mortality and health disparities. Conclusion: Coal-fired power plant emissions are a preventable source of substantial morbidity and mortality. Evidence-based mitigation strategies, combined with equitable energy policy and health-focused planning, provide a clear pathway to protect public health, reduce environmental injustice, and support broader climate and sustainability goals.

کلیدواژه ها:

Health Impacts ، Power Plant ، Air Pollutants ، Mortality