Exacerbation of pre-existing diseases is one of the primary methods by which air pollution can lead to heart attacks. When exposed to air pollution, people with disorders such as coronary artery disease or hypertension are at a higher risk. Increased inflammation and oxidative stress can destabilize existing plaques in the arteries, causing them to rupture and cause blood clots to form, culminating in a heart attack.
Furthermore, air pollution might have an indirect effect on heart health by influencing other parts of our lifestyle (2). Those who live in polluted environments, for example, may be less likely to engage in outdoor physical activity, leading to a sedentary lifestyle. Poor air quality can also influence sleep and cause chronic stress, both of which are known risk factors for heart disease.
It is crucial to remember that the degree of danger varies based on the level of pollution and the vulnerability of an individual. Some people may be genetically susceptible to the negative effects of air pollution, while others may be more resilient. Despite this, multiple studies have found a definite link between air pollution and heart attacks, underlining the importance of stricter environmental legislation as well as individual initiatives to avoid exposure (3).
In conclusion, while air pollution may not directly cause a heart attack, it does play a substantial role in increasing the risk of heart attacks, particularly in people who already have cardiovascular disease. Reducing air pollution exposure through cleaner energy sources, smarter urban planning, and personal safeguards is critical for heart health and overall well-being. More research is needed to completely understand the complex mechanisms that link air pollution and heart attacks, but the evidence so far emphasizes the significance of tackling this public health issue.
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References:
- Air pollution and cardiovascular diseases
Münzel T, Hahad O, Daiber A, Lelieveld J. Luftverschmutzung und Herz-Kreislauf-Erkrankungen [Air pollution and cardiovascular diseases]. Herz. 2021 Mar;46(2):120-128. German. doi: 10.1007/s00059-020-05016-9. Epub 2021 Jan 18. PMID: 33462701; PMCID: PMC7812988. - Environmental and Health Impacts of Air Pollution: A Review.
Manisalidis I, Stavropoulou E, Stavropoulos A, Bezirtzoglou E. Environmental and Health Impacts of Air Pollution: A Review. Front Public Health. 2020 Feb 20;8:14. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00014. PMID: 32154200; PMCID: PMC7044178. - What can individuals do to reduce personal health risks from air pollution?
Laumbach R, Meng Q, Kipen H. What can individuals do to reduce personal health risks from air pollution? J Thorac Dis. 2015 Jan;7(1):96-107. doi: 10.3978/j.issn.2072-1439.2014.12.21. PMID: 25694820; PMCID: PMC4311076.
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