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How avoiding traffic at peak hours may reduce your heart disease risk

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Written By: Editorial Team | Published : December 10, 2014 12:31 PM IST

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London, Dec 9: Revealing a link between air pollution and increased risk of heart disease, a study published in the European Heart Journal recommend those at greater risk to avoid exposure to air pollution during peak hours to lower their risk of development and progression of heart disease.

According to corresponding author Robert Storey from the University of Sheffield, Britain, there is now enough evidence that air pollution is linked to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. 'It not only makes existing heart conditions worse but also contributes to development of the disease,' Storey added.

The link between pollution and heart disease

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Air pollution is an urgent cause of concern as air pollutants may exacerbate and instigate the development of risk factors such as high blood pressure and impaired insulin sensitivity. The cardiovascular effects of air pollution are greater in obese people and people with diabetes.

Particulate matter in the air and increased ozone concentration exerts unwanted stress on the heart and blood vessels giving rise to a range of heart illness including deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and blood vessel dysfunction. (Read: Expert tips to prevent heart disease)

Earlier a study had linked increasing air pollution to irregular heartbeat and lung blood clots. According to the study, the exact association is not yet clear but their data revealed that about 600,000 deaths from a heart attack/stroke linked to average levels of air pollutants over a period of 5 days using data from the monitoring station nearest to the place of residence.

Here are some tips to reduce effects of air pollution on heart health

  • Avoid walking and cycling in streets with high traffic intensity, particularly during rush hour traffic,' the authors from European Society of Cardiology recommended.
  • Even when you step out of the house for early morning walk or for exercising, avoid that major traffic roads.
  • Limiting time spent outdoors during highly polluted periods, especially infants, elderly, and those with cardio-respiratory disorders could help cope with increasing air pollution.
  • Apart from outdoor pollution, the health effects of indoor air pollution also should not be ignored. Although it is not a trivial problem, focus on minimising exposure to pollutants if you live in an traffic prone area. (Read: 5 natural foods to prevent heart disease)

Source: IANS

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