Air Pollution - Dangerous For Your Heart

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading killer in most developed countries. It will soon achieve the dubious distinction of being the leading killer in all countries. A new risk factor for its development has recently been added - air pollution. Bob Hope once said, I dont like all this fresh air. Im from Los Angeles. I dont trust any air I cant see. Unfortunately, air will soon be visible in most parts of the world as pollution is on the rise.

In a recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (February 2007), researchers found that each 10-unit increase in air levels of fine particulate matter increased the risk of death from cardiovascular disease by 76% . This major study monitored 65,893 postmenopausal women living in 36 cities for an average of six years. They had no history of heart disease or stroke at the start of the study. The Journal of the American Medical Association, reported in its March 8, 2006, issue, that air pollution was linked to an increase in hospitalizations from heart failure. For every 10 units increase in fine-particulate matter in the air, heart failure hospitalizations increased by 1.28% in people over the age of 65. Several researchers had previously reported in leading medical journals that short term increases in air pollution was linked to increased episodes of heart attacks, irregular heart rhythms, sudden death and heart failure.

The common pollutants in the air are ozone, volatile organic compounds, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, fine particulate matter, sulphur dioxide and lead. Most of these pollutants cause irritation to the bronchial tubes and lungs. They have also been linked to many cancers. Carbon monoxide can also reduce the ability of blood to bring oxygen to body cells and tissues. Lead can cause nervous system damage, especially in the young. Small particulate matter is a pollutant that is seen in dust, smoke and soot. It is usually generated by the burning of wood, diesel and other fuels; industrial plants; agriculture (plowing and burning ) and vehicular traffic on unpaved roads. The Environmental Protection Agency of USA defines fine particles as being 2.5 micrometers or smaller. Because of their small size, they are able to penetrate deeper into the lungs. Cardiovascular disease seems to be linked to this deadly pollutant.

The exact mechanism by which these small particles cause cardiovascular damage is not clear, but inflammation appears to be the main culprit. Another mechanism that is a prime suspect is interference with the autonomic nervous system. This segment of the peripheral nervous system usually functions in an involuntary, reflexive manner, controlling the organs of our body, such as the stomach and intestines, but more importantly, the heart and the blood vessels. Cellular changes, such as alterations in ion channel function, cell proliferation, signal transduction pathways, and cell signaling, may also play a role.

Naturalist John Muir had advised, Take a course in good water and air; and in the eternal youth of Nature you may renew your own. Go quietly, alone; no harm will befall you. Avoid pollution and you may stay healthy. Avoid small particulate matter, and you may prevent cardiovascular disease. If you spend a lot of time driving, especially during rush hour or in dusty conditions, keep your windows closed. And make sure that you replace the car cabin air filter at least once a year or every 12,000 to 15,000 miles.

Avoid going out on days when the air pollution is high. In the last several years, a growing body of scientific evidence has indicated that the air within our homes and office buildings can often be more seriously polluted than the outdoor air. Research indicates that people spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors. You can reduce indoor air pollution by regularly ventilating your house. Buy a vacuum cleaner that is fitted with a HEPA filter. HEPA stands for "High Efficiency Particle Arrestor", a filter that can capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns.

Such filtration will effectively capture most common household small particles and allergens, like dust, mold spores, pet dander and tobacco smoke. Also invest in air cleaners. Some air cleaners may use HEPA technology while others use electrostatic or electronic mechanisms. They are all effective in removing the dangerous particulate matter.

Napoleon Bonaparte once said, Water, air, and cleanness are the chief articles in my pharmacy. The medical community now confirms this - breathe clean air and you may prevent cardiovascular disease.