Recent research indicates that prolonged exposure to air pollution significantly increases the risk of arterial blockage and heart disease, especially in women.
Researchers analyzed more than 11,000 CT scans in Toronto adults and found that increased exposure to particulate pollution was linked to an 11% increase in calcium buildup in the arteries, a 13% increased chance of plaques, and a 23% increased risk of heart disease.
The study, published in Radiology, reveals that women have an 81% higher risk of heart disease compared to men, highlighting a disparity in the effects of air pollution.
Air quality
The findings suggest that current air quality regulations may not be sufficient to protect the population, as pollution at levels below recommended standards may also contribute to the development of heart disease.
"Even at exposure levels below current air quality standards in Canada, long-term air pollution was independently associated with more advanced coronary heart disease, suggesting that current regulations may not be fully protective and that air pollution, along with blood pressure, cholesterol and smoking, constitutes a modifiable cardiovascular risk factor," said Dr. Kate Hanneman, associate professor of medical imaging at the University of Toronto and principal investigator of the study, in a statement. press.
Risk mitigation in women
Air pollution can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and worsen heart failure. Women can reduce this risk by combining lower exposure with good control of traditional cardiovascular factors.
Reduce exposure
Protect heart health
Consult and act
You should not start taking aspirin to “prevent” a heart attack on your own: it should be prescribed by a professional, just like any adjustment of cardiac medications. Seek urgent care for chest pain or tightness, severe shortness of breath, fainting, cold sweat, or sudden neurological symptoms such as weakness on one side of the body or difficulty speaking.
