Asthma Inhalers’ Hidden Climate Cost Equals Half-Million Cars Annually

A new study reveals a surprising environmental threat. Common asthma and COPD inhalers generate massive carbon emissions. Researchers from the University of California Los Angeles led this analysis.

The findings were published in The Journal of the American Medical Association. They show the US healthcare system’s significant carbon footprint from essential medical devices.

Metered-Dose Inhalers Drive Vast Majority of Emissions

The study analyzed ten years of prescription data. It found inhalers produced 24.9 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent from 2014 to 2024. This equals the annual emissions from about 530,000 gasoline-powered cars.

Metered-dose inhalers were responsible for 98 percent of these emissions. These devices use hydrofluoroalkane propellants to deliver medication. The estimated social cost of these emissions reached $5.7 billion.

Lower-Emission Alternatives Offer a Clear Path Forward

Researchers identified a viable solution. Dry powder inhalers and soft mist inhalers offer much lower emissions. These devices deliver medication without harmful propellants.

Lead author Dr. William Feldman emphasized the dual benefit of switching. This approach protects both patients with chronic respiratory disease and the planet. He called for understanding the problem’s scale to develop targeted reduction strategies.

This research highlights a critical intersection of healthcare and environmental sustainability. The widespread adoption of lower-emission inhalers presents a significant opportunity. It can substantially reduce the carbon footprint of managing chronic respiratory diseases.

Thought you’d like to know

What types of inhalers are most harmful to the environment?

Metered-dose inhalers are the most harmful. They use hydrofluoroalkane propellants. These devices caused 98 percent of the emissions studied.

Are there environmentally friendly inhaler options available?

Yes, dry powder and soft mist inhalers are available. They deliver medication without propellants. These alternatives have a much lower carbon footprint.

How much emissions did the study attribute to inhalers?

Inhalers generated an estimated 24.9 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. This was over a ten-year period in the United States. The social cost was estimated at $5.7 billion.

Who conducted this research on inhaler emissions?

Scientists from the University of California Los Angeles led the research. Dr. William Feldman was the lead author. The study was published in a major medical journal.

Why is this finding significant for healthcare?

It reveals a major environmental impact from essential medical devices. This adds to the healthcare system’s overall carbon footprint. It also identifies a clear path for reducing emissions.

Trusted Sources: The Journal of the American Medical Association, University of California Los Angeles