Every year, World Environment Day is observed on June 5. While people usually talk about the protection of the environment, it has a bigger role in also helping us maintain good health. As the World Heart Federation report recently indicated how air pollution affects heart health, mid-day.com spoke to Mumbai doctors who explain the connection
While heart disease is attributed to various lifestyle factors, what connection does air pollution have with heart disease? Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: istock
Key Highlights
- Every year, World Environment Day is observed on June 5 by people around the world
- The research found as many as 1.9 million people are dying every year from heart disease
- Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) can impact heart health
At the recently concluded World Heart Summit in May, the World Heart Federation published a research study that has indicated that the number of deaths from cardiovascular conditions caused by air pollution has been on the rise over the past decade and is set to increase further if there is no timely intervention by governments. The non-governmental organisation that has been recognised by the World Health Organization as its partner in dealing with cardiovascular disease around the globe, has found that as many as 1.9 million people are dying every year from heart disease and just under a million from strokes due to outdoor air pollution alone. While heart disease is attributed to various lifestyle factors, what connection does air pollution have with heart disease?