Roadside pollution can alter heart structure
Meeting pollution safety guidelines may not be enough to protect public health
People exposed to air pollution, even at levels well within government guidelines, can experience changes in their heart structure similar to those seen in the early stages of heart failure, scientists have found.
Based on data from roughly 4,000 British residents without underlying heart problems, researchers from Queen Mary University of London and the University of Oxford found a clear association between living near loud, busy roads and the development of enlarged right and left ventricles, the important pumping chambers in the heart.
With most participants living outside major British cities, average annual exposure to PM2.5 particles of air pollution was well within British government guidelines of 8-12 micrograms per cubic metre. Higher exposures to the pollutants, however, were linked to more significant changes in the structure of the heart.
For every extra microgram per cubic metre of PM2.5 and for every 10 extra micrograms per cubic metre of nitrogen dioxide, another roadside pollutant, the heart enlarges by approximately one percent, the researchers found.
“Although our study was observational and hasn’t yet shown a causal link, we saw significant changes in the heart, even at relatively low levels of air pollution exposure,” said Queen Mary University’s Dr Nay Aung, who led the research.
“Air pollution should be seen as a modifiable risk factor. Doctors and the general public all need to be aware of their exposure when they think about their heart health, just like they think about their blood pressure, their cholesterol, and their weight.”
This story was originally published in the Global Health and Travel issue of October-November 2018.
Related Articles
Some infections linked to heart attack and stroke
Patients affected by common infections have a higher risk of heart attacks, stroke, and death, a new study finds
Read moreScientists link 36 genes to heart failure
The discovery of previously unknown genes implicated in heart failure could pave the way for personalised treatments to reverse the condition
Read moreNo good cholesterol for postmenopausal women?
Study suggests doctors need to rethink benefits of HDL cholesterol
Read moreLatest Articles
Medical Care
Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP): The Emerging of Exercise is Medicine
How Exercising can be a Medicine
Read moreMedical Care
Reversing type 2 Diabetes: Embracing Hope and Determination
Experience the remarkable journey of Ash and his grandfather Atok as they conquer type 2 diabetes through unconventional methods, showcasing the power of love and determination over adversity.
Read moreMedical Care
Bladder Cancer: What You Need to Know
Empower yourself with our comprehensive guide to bladder cancer. Explore symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and supportive resources to safeguard your health.
Read more
