News|HealthStudy finds US asthma inhalers produce same emissions as 500,000 carsResearchers say inhalers in the US alone generate annual emissions equivalent to 530,000 cars.
A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, and Harvard University has analyzed the global warming emissions from inhalers used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the United…
A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, and Harvard University has analyzed the global warming emissions from inhalers used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the United States from 2014 to 2024. The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) on Mon, Oct 2, 2023, reports that inhalers used by patients in the US generated 24.9 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent over the decade.
The study highlights that metered-dose inhalers, often referred to as puffers, are responsible for 98 percent of these emissions. These inhalers use pressurized canisters containing hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) propellants, which are potent greenhouse gases. In contrast, dry powder and soft mist inhalers do not use such propellants. Dry powder inhalers rely on the patient's breath to release medication, while soft mist inhalers turn liquid into a fine spray, both resulting in a lesser environmental impact.
Medically, only a small fraction of patients require metered-dose inhalers. Very young children and frail older adults with weak lungs may need puffers due to their specific medical requirements.
The study highlights that metered-dose inhalers, often referred to as puffers, are responsible for 98 percent of these emissions.
The slower adoption of environmentally friendly inhalers in the US is partly attributed to insurance and market barriers. For example, a dry-powder version of the commonly used albuterol is available but often not covered by insurance, making it more expensive. Additionally, other medications like budesonide-formoterol, widely available in dry-powder form in Europe, are not accessible in the US market.
The study emphasizes the necessity for policy and pricing reforms to make lower-emission inhalers affordable and accessible. It is crucial to ensure that patients with asthma and COPD are not stigmatized and that medications are delivered sustainably. A related commentary in JAMA echoes the need for insurers and policymakers to facilitate access to affordable, low-emission inhalers.
The study also warns that new low-global-warming metered-dose inhalers are expected to enter the US market as high-priced brand-name products, potentially limiting access for patients without comprehensive insurance coverage.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.