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2d ago

JAMA Study Finds U.S. Inhalers Emit Over 2 Million Tons of CO2e Annually

Most of the footprint comes from hydrofluoroalkane propellants in metered‑dose devices, prompting calls for coverage of lower‑emission alternatives.

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Millions of Americans use metered-dose inhalers to treat conditions like asthma.
Metered-dose inhalers, or 'puffers,' accounted for 98 percent of emissions due to the propellants used to deliver medication
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Overview

  • Researchers estimate inhalers used for asthma and COPD generate more than 2 million metric tons of CO2‑equivalent each year, roughly equal to the emissions of about 530,000 gas cars.
  • From 2014 to 2024, 1.6 billion inhalers dispensed in the U.S. produced 24.9 million metric tons of CO2e, with metered‑dose inhalers responsible for about 98% due to HFA propellants.
  • Annual inhaler emissions increased 24% over the decade, rising from 1.9 million to 2.3 million metric tons, and the study estimates a $5.7 billion social cost.
  • An accompanying JAMA commentary urges insurers and regulators to ensure affordable access to dry‑powder and soft‑mist devices, warning that several low‑GWP metered‑dose products are expected to debut as high‑priced brands that could widen inequities.
  • A real‑world example from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs shows systemwide shifts to dry‑powder devices cut inhaler‑related emissions by more than 68% between 2008 and 2023.