Cause 15. Air Pollution: An Invisible Threat to Heart Health
While air pollution might not be the first factor that springs to mind when discussing heart disease, it is indeed a significant contributor. This invisible threat can have serious implications for heart health, affecting us right where we live and breathe.
Firstly, air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5), can infiltrate the respiratory system and enter the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, these particles can cause inflammation and oxidative stress, leading to damage to the heart and blood vessels, thereby increasing heart disease risk.
Secondly, exposure to air pollution can result in an elevated heart rate and blood pressure, two key risk factors for heart disease. Chronic exposure can lead to long-term changes in these cardiovascular parameters, leading to heart disease.
Moreover, air pollution can exacerbate existing heart conditions, making the heart more susceptible to arrhythmias and other heart diseases. This can result in worsening symptoms in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
Consequently, air pollution, often an overlooked factor, plays a significant role in heart disease development, accentuating the need for clean, healthy environments for heart health. (15)
