Introduction Since the 1990s, the effects of air pollution on mortality at current levels have been the subject of extensive research in public health and toxicology. State of the Knowledge Numerous epidemiological studies have established a short-term link between all-cause mortality and mortality from more specific cardiovascular or respiratory conditions and various air pollutants. These findings have been established in particular by French, European, and American multicenter studies as well as by meta-analyses. Furthermore, studies conducted to identify those most vulnerable to the effects of pollutants have shown that children, the elderly, people with chronic diseases, and socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals are more sensitive to the effects of pollutants. Outlook Research on the mechanisms of action of pollutants should be expanded, particularly regarding nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide. Furthermore, gaining a better understanding of the health effects of the various components of particulate matter remains a key priority. Finally, a better characterization of the individuals most vulnerable to air pollution, as well as the causes of this vulnerability, appears necessary. Conclusion The consistency observed in studies establishing short-term links between air pollution and mortality, as well as the findings from toxicological and experimental studies, support the causality of the observed links. (R.A.)