Exposure To Diesel Pollution Ups Risk Of Heart Attack

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 30th May, 2017 ) : A word of caution; avoid places with heavy traffic or try to find a different route as a study has warned that exposure to diesel pollution causes heart attack, heart failure and death.

The findings indicated that every five (microgram/cubic meter) �g/m3 increase in exposure was associated with a four to eight percent increase in left ventricular volume and a two percent decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction.

"There is strong evidence that particulate matter (PM) emitted mainly from diesel road vehicles is associated with increased risk of heart attack, heart failure, and death," said lead author Dr Nay Aung from Queen Mary University of London.

They examined 4,255 participants, conducted Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging to measure left ventricular volume (structure), and left ventricular ejection fraction (function), Medical Daily reported.

Annual average exposure to PM2.5 was calculated based on participants' home address. The participants were 62 years old on average and 47 percent were men. The annual average PM2.5 level was 10 microgram/cubic meter (�g/m3).

Dr Aung explained that as PM2.5 exposure rises, the larger the heart gets and the worse it performs. Both of these measures are associated with increased morbidity and mortality from heart disease.

The investigators found linear relationships between ambient PM 2.5 level and heart structure and function. PM2.5 causes systemic inflammation, vasoconstriction and raised blood pressure. The combination of these factors can increase the pressure in the heart, which enlarges to cope with the overload, Dr Aung noted.

The researchers concluded that those with cardiorespiratory diseases should limit the time spent outdoors during highly polluted periods such as rush hours.