Air pollution and its association with respiratory, cardiovascular, and malignant disease burden in three Albanian municipalities: a 2024 descriptive study

Introduction: Air pollution is a major public health concern, contributing to respiratory, cardiovascular, and malignant diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the burden of these diseases in the municipalities of Patos, Roskovec, and Fier, Albania, in 2024, and to assess the corresponding environmental exposure to key air pollutants, including PM2.5, PM10, O₃, NO₂, SO₂, CO, and benzene. Methods Data on morbidity, mortality, and hospitalizations for respiratory, cardiovascular, and malignant diseases were collected from local health registries. Simultaneously, ambient air quality measurements were obtained from monitoring stations in Fier from January to May 2024. Pollutant concentrations were compared with World Health Organization (WHO) 24-hour and annual standards. Hospitalization intensity was analyzed in relation to disease prevalence and mortality. Results The municipality of Fier recorded the highest absolute number of cases and hospitalizations for all disease groups, consistent with higher disease prevalence and mortality. Patos and Roskovec exhibited higher hospitalization rates relative to the number of cases, particularly for malignant and cardiovascular diseases, indicating greater reliance on inpatient care. Air quality analysis in Fier showed seasonal variation, with elevated PM2.5, PM10, SO₂, and CO concentrations in winter months, while O₃ peaked in spring. NO₂ and benzene levels remained below WHO thresholds throughout the study period. Hospitalizations correlated with periods of higher pollutant concentrations, suggesting a potential link between air pollution and disease severity. Conclusion These findings highlight the substantial burden of chronic diseases in the studied municipalities, with Fier experiencing the greatest absolute impact. Seasonal air pollution trends underscore the need for strengthened preventive measures, early diagnosis, and enhanced outpatient management to reduce hospitalizations and improve health outcomes. Continuous air quality monitoring remains essential for public health planning.