Researchers reveal that pollution is a greater health threat than that of war, terrorism, malaria, HIV, tuberculosis, drugs, and alcohol combined. The study, involving global experts, examines traditional and lesser-known pollutants, advocating for better monitoring and awareness to mitigate cardiovascular impacts. Immediate action and broad public health campaigns are recommended to confront this escalating crisis. Credit: SciTechDaily.
Professor Kovacic says: “Every year around 20 million people worldwide die from cardiovascular disease with pollutants playing an ever-increasing role. Other pollutants like noise and light pollution can affect sleep patterns, drive inflammation and lead to an increase in blood pressure and weight gain. Extreme heat can also lead to dehydration, decreased blood volume, increased cardiovascular strain, and acute kidney failure.Professor Kovacic adds: “Whilst many of these biological mechanisms are known, we still have a huge gap in our understanding of the link between pollutants and heart disease.
The authors note that while the environmental crisis is imminent, and impact on health ever more pressing, the impetus for change appears sporadic. “Urgent action is required as climate change strides forward and pollution infiltrates the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, and the places we live in,” they write.Calling for the implementation of heart-healthy changes to city design such as increasing tree cover, safe means of active travel and reduced use of vehicles.