More than 7,000 people in the country die from respiratory illnesses each year, according to the Ministry of Public Health.

Sami Karimi, the head of the Ministry of Public Health's non-infectious diseases department, said that air pollution causes the majority of the nation's residents to experience respiratory illness.

"Each year, 7,730 people die as a result of respiratory illnesses, and around 23,000 people are diagnosed with various types of cancer, of which 16,000 die,” Karimi, said.

Meanwhile, the Ibne Sina Hospital's director told TOLOnews that Kabul's rate of respiratory illness has lately increased by 30 percent.

“Compared to the past, respiratory disease has increased by 25 to 30 percent since the past,” said Gulab Gul Zadran, director of the hospital.

"Respiratory diseases are increasing day by day, and something must be done to avoid this illness,” said Hamidullah Hashimi, a physician.

However, some patients said that air pollution is the main reason for their respiratory disease.

“Respiratory illnesses usually increase in the winter because of the impact of air pollution,” said Sulaiman Bahram, a patient.

Almost all of Kabul's air becomes polluted as winter approaches.

According to the National Environmental Protection Agency, the most major sources of air pollution in Kabul are the excessive use of coal and the exhaust from cars.

The agency asked the people to pay attention in this regard.