Rapid stroke risk elevation observable within a five-day span
Air pollution, often perceived as an immediate threat to the respiratory system, can also contribute to cardiovascular issues in a short span. A study reviewing over 18 million stroke cases found that short-term exposure to pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, ozone, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide can increase the risk of stroke.
The research, published in Neurology, also examined various sizes of particulate matter, including PM1, PM2.5, and PM10. Notably, the study was not conducted over weeks or months but over a five-day period, indicating that air pollution exposure may heighten the risk of stroke in as little as five days.
Nitrogen dioxide was found to raise the stroke risk by 28 percent, while carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and ozone increased the risk by 26 percent, 15 percent, and 5 percent, respectively. Moreover, both nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide were linked to a higher risk of death due to stroke.
When analyzing the impact of different sizes of air pollution on stroke risk, PM1 particulates were associated with a 9 percent rise, PM2.5 with a 15 percent increase, and PM10 with a 14 percent increase. The study's authors note that most of the studies included in the analysis were conducted in high-income countries, and further research is required to understand the effects of air pollution on the health of people in lower-income countries.
In an effort to combat the effects of air pollution, it is advised to pay attention to air quality alerts and minimize outdoor activities during periods of high ozone or particulate matter levels. Wearing a N95 mask can provide an additional layer of protection. Indoors, dusting and vacuuming frequently can help remove particulates, while having plants around may aid in filtering some pollutants.
For those who choose to invest in an air filter for their home, it is recommended to select one that can handle ozone as well as particulates. Air filtration systems utilizing activated carbon particle filters or photoelectrochemical oxidation can address both these air pollutants. Additionally, certain nutrition practices, such as taking B vitamin supplements or consuming omega-3-rich foods, may help protect against the harmful effects of air pollution on the cardiovascular system.
Sources:- Air Pollution Exposure May Lead to Increased Risk of Stroke Within Five Days - Integrative Practitioner- Short-term Exposure to Air Pollution and Ischemic Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis - Neurology
- The study in Neurology found that exposure to pollutants like nitrogen dioxide, ozone, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide, even within a short span, can increase the risk of stroke by 28 percent, 26 percent, 15 percent, and 5 percent, respectively.
- Not only does air pollution pose a threat to the respiratory system, but it also contributes to cardiovascular issues, as indicated by the study analyzing over 18 million stroke cases.
- The researchers have linked PM1 particulates to a 9 percent rise in stroke risk, PM2.5 to a 15 percent increase, and PM10 to a 14 percent increase, emphasizing the impact of different sizes of air pollution on health.
- To counteract the effects of air pollution, it is advisable to invest in an air filter for the home that can handle both particulates and ozone, such as those utilizing activated carbon particle filters or photoelectrochemical oxidation.
- Adopting certain nutrition practices, like taking B vitamin supplements or consuming omega-3-rich foods, may provide a safeguard against the harmful effects of air pollution on the cardiovascular system, contributing to overall health and wellness.
