Economic Valuation of Transport-Related NO_2 and SO_2 Exposure on ARI Prevalence Trends: A Comparative Analysis of Environmental Statistics and Indonesian Health Profiles (2018-2023)

Abstract

Air pollution from road transport significantly contributes to Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI) morbidity in Indonesia. Air pollution originating from road transportation is a major contributor to Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI) morbidity in Indonesia.. This study analyzes trends between transport exposure indicators and ARI prevalence while quantifying economic burden using panel data (2018–2023). Secondary data on motorized vehicle volume, Air Pollutant Standard Index (ISPU), and provincial ARI cases were analyzed using a Fixed Effect regression model, controlling for population density and regional GDP per capita. Economic valuation was conducted using the Cost of Illness (COI) approach. ISPU and vehicle volume showed a statistically significant positive association with ARI cases ( ). A 1% increase in ISPU and vehicle volume linked to 0.456% and 0.287% ARI increases, respectively. Total COI reached Rp 42.63 Trillion, with 74.3% (Rp 31.68 Trillion) attributable to transport pollution.​ Transport pollution drives ARI morbidity and substantial economic costs. Findings urge emission controls, sustainable transport policies, and external cost internalization to reduce public health burdens.​