February is American Heart Month and Saint Valentine’s Day, a good time to raise awareness about cardiovascular health. While many factors contribute to heart disease, air pollution is a significant and often overlooked risk factor.
The Link Between Air Pollution and Heart Disease
Air pollution is a complex mixture of gases and particulate matter, some of which are particularly harmful to human health. When we breathe in polluted air, these particles can enter our bloodstream and trigger a cascade of negative effects on the cardiovascular system.
- Inflammation: Air pollution can cause inflammation in the blood vessels, which can lead to plaque buildup and hardening of the arteries.
- Blood Clots: Exposure to air pollution can increase the risk of blood clots, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
- Arrhythmias: Air pollution can disrupt the electrical activity of the heart, leading to irregular heartbeats.
- Heart Failure: Long-term exposure to air pollution can weaken the heart muscle and contribute to heart failure.
See The Air 