ORIGINAL RESEARCH
A Study of the Impact of Coordinated Regional
Air Pollution Control on the Health of the Elderly
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1
Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
2
West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
3
School of Economics, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
4
School of Live Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, Sichuan, China
5
School of Intelligent Finance, Tianfu College of Southwestern University Of Finance and Economics, Mianyang,
Sichuan, China
6
School of Marxism, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
Submission date: 2024-09-30
Final revision date: 2024-11-26
Acceptance date: 2025-01-24
Online publication date: 2025-03-27
Corresponding author
Rui Wang
School of Marxism, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China, China
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ABSTRACT
With rapid societal and economic development, the environmental and health impacts of air
pollution have become increasingly critical. As populations age and chronic diseases rise, addressing
the health challenges of older adults is an urgent priority. The elderly, as a vulnerable demographic, are
particularly susceptible to air pollution's adverse effects, posing significant challenges to sustainable
societal development. Studies link air pollution to respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD, as well
as cognitive decline, highlighting its long-term health risks. Regional pollution cooperation has proven
effective in reducing pollutant levels, improving air quality, and benefiting public health, especially
for vulnerable groups. This study employs longitudinal data from the China Health and Retirement
Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) and a Difference-in-Differences (DID) approach to evaluate the
impact of joint air pollution control policies on elderly health and the mechanisms involved. Results
show that these policies significantly improve health outcomes, with a regression coefficient of 0.0222
(p<0.05). Effects are more pronounced in rural areas (coefficient 0.0218, p<0.05), high-income groups
(coefficient 0.0217, p<0.05), and regions with advanced digital infrastructure (coefficient 0.0181, p<0.10).
Mechanistic analyses indicate that the policies enhance health by reducing PM2.5 levels and respiratory
diseases (p<0.01). The study highlights the need for a multi-stakeholder approach, emphasizing regional
coordination, technological innovation, and targeted support for vulnerable groups. Strengthening
digital infrastructure and integrating international best practices are vital for inclusive and sustainable
health outcomes for the elderly.