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The Ontario Medical Association has developed a method of estimating the health impacts due to air pollution. The OMA’s software, Illness Costs of Air Pollution (ICAP) estimates that in 2008, air pollution may contribute to up to 6,200 premature deaths in Ontario and 220 premature deaths in Simcoe Muskoka. It is expected that air pollution-related illness and premature death will continue to increase. The reason for the increases in health effects is not based on increased pollution levels, but rather from population growth and the aging of the population. Seniors (ages 65+) currently make up 15% of the population; however, this figure is projected to reach 23% by 2026. This figure shows the projected increases in premature mortality over the next 19 years. The total for all ages will increase from 220 deaths in 2008 to 361 deaths in 2026. The 18 to 65 age group will experience an 11% increase in premature mortality as a result of air pollution. Premature mortality for those 65 years and over is expected to increase approximately 74%. 
In 2008, the total hospital admissions related to air pollution exposure is estimated at 580 for Simcoe Muskoka. Most of the hospital admissions will be associated with cardiovascular illnesses. In addition, emergency room visits associated with air pollution exposure in Simcoe Muskoka are estimated at almost 2,160 cases.
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