Toronto( The COW News Digital) A new medical study has revealed that long-term exposure to air pollution doesn’t just harm the lungs and respiratory system — it can also severely impact heart health.
Researchers from the University of Toronto, Canada, have found strong evidence linking prolonged exposure to airborne pollutants with significant damage to the heart. The study utilized cardiac MRI scans to assess heart function in 493 patients and 201 healthy individuals, focusing on the effects of fine particulate matter found in polluted air.
The results were concerning: individuals exposed to polluted air over extended periods exhibited clear signs of heart damage. Most notably, their hearts struggled to pump blood effectively — a condition associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes.
Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death globally, and while past studies had suggested a possible connection between air pollution and heart disease, this study offers more concrete evidence.
According to the researchers, the impact of air pollution was particularly pronounced in women, smokers, and individuals with high blood pressure. The study found that even moderate levels of air pollution — levels considered relatively low by international standards — were enough to cause changes in the structure and function of the heart.
“Our findings support the growing body of evidence that air pollution is a significant risk factor for heart disease,” said one of the lead researchers. “Even in countries like Canada, where air pollution is relatively low, the cardiovascular impact is still measurable and concerning.”
The researchers stressed the need for public health interventions and urged people living in polluted environments to undergo regular heart check-ups, particularly if they fall into high-risk categories. They also called for stronger environmental regulations and increased awareness about the hidden dangers of air quality.
The full findings of the study have been published in the journal Radiology, adding urgency to ongoing global discussions about climate change, pollution control, and preventive healthcare.
