Climate change is making air quality worse in many parts of the world. Rising temperatures increase ground-level ozone, and more frequent wildfires release harmful smoke and particulates into the air. These changes, combined with ongoing pollution from sources like vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions, lead to longer and more intense episodes of unhealthy air.
A new study led by researchers from the University of Toronto in Canada examined more than 600 people and found that long-term exposure to air pollution is associated with early signs of heart damage. The research, which was recently published in the journal Radiology, indicates that fine particulate matter in the air may contribute to diffuse myocardial fibrosis, a form of scarring in the heart muscle that can precede heart failure.
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide.
Long-term exposure to common air pollutants is also linked to a significantly higher risk of dementia. A separate study by researchers from the University of Cambridge in the UK analyzed data from nearly 30 million people and found that for every 10 micrograms of fine particulate matter per cubic meter of air, the risk of dementia increases by 17%. The study, which was recently published in The Lancet Planetary Health, found that exposure to nitrogen dioxide and soot was also strongly associated with an increased risk of dementia.
Dementia is estimated to affect more than 57 million people worldwide, a number that is expected to swell to 152 million by 2050.
Strengthening efforts to reduce air pollution could make a real difference for the environment and human health.
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Web Links
Even low levels of air pollution may quietly scar your heart, MRI study finds
Is the air you breathe silently fueling dementia? A 29-million-person study says yes
Photo, posted February 25, 2017, courtesy of CCO Bay via Flickr.
Earth Wise is a production of WAMC Northeast Public Radio
