Inhalers produce emissions equal to 530,000 cars annually, study finds

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Inhalers that deliver quick relief to patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may be taking a toll on the planet, producing as much climate-warming pollution as more than half a million cars each year.

Researchers reported in a new JAMA study that inhalers have generated more than 2 million metric tons of carbon emissions each year over the last decade, equivalent to the emissions of about 530,000 gas-powered cars on the road annually.

The study analyzed emissions from the three different types of inhalers approved for asthma or COPD from 2014 to 2024, finding metered-dose inhalers were the most damaging to the environment.

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