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Even low air pollution may increase heart failure risk: Study
Conducted in the United Kingdom, the study tested 4,000 people and found that those living near polluted areas have on average larger hearts than those living in less polluted areas.
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A cyclist wearing a mask in Beijing, China. (Shutterstock/Fotokon)
L
ow levels of air pollution may cause heart abnormalities similar to those seen in the early stages of heart failure, a study reported by the Independent warned.
Conducted in the United Kingdom, the study tested 4,000 people and found that those living near polluted areas have on average larger hearts than those living in less polluted areas – regardless of the fact that the participants came from areas where pollution levels were below the UK guidelines.
Having a larger heart is found to be associated with higher pollutants exposure, which increases the size of the heart’s left and right ventricles, a change said to be similar to patients in the early stages of heart failure.
Read also: Jakarta’s air pollution worse than Bangkok, better than Manila: WHO
Although the study was observational and could not definitively determine what other factors contribute to heart change, the head of the research analysis at Queen Mary’s University London, Dr. Nay Aung, reminded the public that they should be aware of their exposure as air pollution is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
The study, published in the journal Circulation, is in line with the UK government’s effort to consult on its Clean Air Strategy, which closes this month. (anm/kes)
