Imagine something that saves lives, yet unknowingly contributes to a massive environmental problem. New research reveals that common inhalers used for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are doing just that. These devices, vital for millions, release greenhouse gases similar to more than half a million cars driving every year.
Researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and Harvard University shared their findings on October 6, 2025. Their study appeared in JAMA, a respected medical journal. They looked at inhaler use across the United States from 2014 to 2024. The data showed these medical tools put out over 24.9 million tons of carbon dioxide. That’s a huge footprint.
The Hidden Environmental Cost
The biggest culprit isn’t all inhalers, but a specific kind. Metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) use a gas called hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) to push medicine into the lungs. This gas makes up 98% of the total greenhouse gas released by all inhalers. Other types, like dry powder inhalers (DPIs) and soft mist inhalers (SMIs), work differently. They rely on the user’s breath to deliver the medicine. These greener options have a much smaller impact on our planet.
William Feldman, a lung specialist at UCLA and the lead researcher, spoke about the findings. He called the pollution level, “equivalent to over 530,000 cars per year,” a major concern. But he also stressed that it’s a problem with a simple fix. Most patients could easily switch to the more environmentally friendly powder or soft mist inhalers. Countries like Sweden and Japan already use these alternatives widely, and patients still get the same good treatment.
Push for Policy Change
The challenge, it turns out, isn’t about the medicine itself. It’s about access and money. Dry powder inhalers often cost more. Health insurance plans sometimes don’t cover them as well as the older, high-emission types. This puts an unfair burden on patients. The research team made it clear they aren’t blaming individuals for needing their medication. Instead, they hope their work sparks bigger changes. They want to see new policies and better pricing. This would ensure everyone can get sustainable, affordable medicine without extra stress. Such changes need to start at the highest levels of government.
Source: Aljazeera