Environmental pollution is the leading cause of premature, reversible deaths and disabilities worldwide today (1). The advancement of scientific understanding about the extent and scope of pollution and its relationship with a broad spectrum of diseases, particularly noncommunicable diseases, has provided a more comprehensive perspective on pollution's actual global impact, thereby directing attention to the environment as a major, yet under-acknowledged, determinant of health outcomes (2). Fine particulate matter <2.5 μm (PM2.5) air pollution is the biggest environmental risk factor for cardiovascular (CV) deaths and disabilities around the world (3).

Studies (3) have shown that exposure to air pollution, especially fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The mechanisms by which air pollution contributes to CVD are complex and not fully understood, but they may involve oxidative stress, inflammation, and autonomic dysfunction. The exact mechanisms by which air pollution contributes to CVD are not fully understood, but several pathways have been identified day by day. Overall, air pollution has a negative impact on cardiovascular health and has been linked to an increased risk of CVD, heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.

In conclusion, air pollution is a major risk factor for CVD, and reducing exposure to air pollution should be a priority for public health authorities. Interventions, such as reducing emissions from transportation and industry, improving energy efficiency, and promoting clean energy sources, can help to reduce the health impacts of air pollution and improve overall cardiovascular health.

Figure 1: Biological Pathways Whereby PM2.5 Promotes Cardiovascular Events (4).

References

1. Miller KA, Siscovick DS, Sheppard L, Shepherd K, Sullivan JH, Anderson GL, et al. Long-term exposure to air pollution and incidence of cardiovascular events in women. New England Journal of Medicine. 2007;356(5):447-58.
2. Pope III CA, Muhlestein JB, May HT, Renlund DG, Anderson JL, Horne BD. Ischemic heart disease events triggered by short-term exposure to fine particulate air pollution. Circulation. 2006;114(23):2443-8.
3. Rajagopalan S, Al-Kindi Sadeer G, Brook Robert D. Air Pollution and Cardiovascular Disease. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2018;72(17):2054-70.
4. Block ML, Elder A, Auten RL, Bilbo SD, Chen H, Chen J-C, et al. The outdoor air pollution and brain health workshop. Neurotoxicology. 2012;33(5):972-84.