Moving abroad? Don't overlook pollution as a health risk
According to the 2025 IQAir World Air Quality Report, only 14% of cities worldwide met the World Health Organisation's (WHO) recommended annual air quality guideline, while 91% of countries and territories exceeded safe PM2.5 levels. Meanwhile, the WHO estimates that 99% of the global population breathes air that exceeds its recommended pollution limits, contributing to around 7 million premature deaths every year.
While these figures may sound alarming, living abroad doesn't mean you have to compromise your health. With the right preparation and a few simple daily habits, you can significantly reduce your exposure to pollution and enjoy your new destination with greater peace of mind.
When relocating abroad, protecting yourself from pollution starts with understanding the local environment, assessing air and water quality, investing in the right equipment and making informed lifestyle choices.
Understanding local pollution: air, water and the environment
Pollution is associated with a wide range of health conditions, including asthma, cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections and gastrointestinal illnesses. Long-term exposure has also been linked to stroke, certain cancers and reduced life expectancy.
Although often overlooked during the relocation process, pollution is one of the most important environmental health risks expats should consider before moving abroad.
Air pollution
Some of the regions most affected by air pollution include South Asia, parts of Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulphur dioxide (SO₂) and ozone (O₃) can all contribute to respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease and chronic inflammation.
Cities such as Delhi, Lahore, Dhaka and Jakarta regularly experience pollution levels well above WHO recommendations. Seasonal events, including wildfires, crop burning, sandstorms and temperature inversions, can cause air quality to deteriorate rapidly, even in cities that usually enjoy acceptable conditions.
Water pollution
In some countries, tap water is not safe to drink without treatment. Drinking contaminated water can cause diarrhoea and other illnesses such as hepatitis A and E, legionellosis and gastrointestinal infections.
Industrial pollution, ageing infrastructure and agricultural runoff can also introduce heavy metals, arsenic and harmful chemicals into water supplies, increasing long-term health risks.
Environmental pollution
Environmental pollution extends beyond air and water quality. Expats may also encounter excessive dust, unmanaged waste, plastic pollution, noise pollution and poor sanitation.
Climate change is increasing the frequency of heatwaves, droughts and flooding, which can further affect air quality, water safety and the spread of infectious diseases.
How to prepare before moving abroad
Choosing a destination with lower pollution levels isn't always possible. Fortunately, planning ahead can make a significant difference.
Before relocating:
Research your destination's air quality using trusted platforms such as IQAir, WAQI (World Air Quality Index) or local government monitoring services.
Check whether tap water is safe to drink by consulting WHO guidance, local authorities and expat communities.
Choose accommodation carefully. If possible, select housing away from major roads or industrial areas, with good ventilation and space for an air purifier.
Pack useful equipment such as a portable air quality monitor, reusable filtered water bottle or portable water purification system if travelling to remote areas.
Familiarise yourself with seasonal pollution patterns such as wildfire season, agricultural burning or sandstorms.
Daily habits to protect yourself from pollution
Protect yourself from air pollution
Monitoring daily air quality should become part of your routine. Many weather apps now include Air Quality Index (AQI) information alongside temperature forecasts.
When pollution levels are high:
Limit outdoor exercise.
Keep windows closed during pollution peaks.
Use a HEPA air purifier indoors.
Wear a certified FFP2, FFP3, KN95 or N95 mask if spending prolonged periods outdoors.
If driving, switch your vehicle to air recirculation mode.
If your destination experiences seasonal pollution, consider scheduling holidays or remote working periods during the worst months where possible.
Protect yourself from water pollution
If tap water isn't considered safe:
Install certified water filters where appropriate.
Use reusable bottles with built-in filtration.
Carry portable water purification tablets or filters when travelling.
Choose sealed bottled water if filtration isn't available.
When eating out:
Avoid drinks containing ice unless you're confident it was made with treated water.
Be cautious with raw fruit and vegetables washed in untreated water.
Also pay attention to local advice regarding rivers, lakes and beaches, particularly after flooding or heavy rainfall.
Adopt environmentally responsible habits
Protecting your own health also means helping reduce environmental pollution for everyone.
Simple actions include:
Reducing single-use plastics and unnecessary waste.
Walking, cycling or using public transport whenever possible.
Choosing locally produced food to reduce your carbon footprint.
Conserving electricity by limiting unnecessary air conditioning and energy use.
Supporting local environmental and community initiatives where appropriate.
Healthy habits make all the difference
Living abroad should be an exciting and rewarding experience, not one overshadowed by environmental health concerns.
By understanding local pollution risks, monitoring air and water quality, investing in the right equipment and adapting a few everyday habits, you can significantly reduce your exposure and protect your long-term health.
Small preventive actions today can make a lasting difference to your wellbeing wherever life takes you.
How APRIL International can support expats living abroad
APRIL International offers international health insurance solutions designed for expatriates, families, students, retirees and internationally mobile professionals. For expats, this type of cover can provide support in the country of residence and, depending on the selected plan and area of cover, during stays in other countries.
With APRIL International, insured members can benefit from flexible levels of cover, access to a large international medical network, digital services to manage claims more easily and multilingual assistance. This can help expatriates feel more secure when navigating healthcare systems abroad, especially in destinations where medical costs can be unpredictable
