Heart attack risks ‘can be increased by air pollution’

A new UK study has discovered a potential causal link between increased levels of air pollution and an elevated heart attack risk.

British Heart Foundation (BHF)-funded research by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine has found that the risk of suffering a coronary event is elevated in the six hours after being exposed to heavy pollutants.

This conclusion was reached after analysis of almost 80,000 patients who had suffered a heart attack in 15 areas around the UK, with vehicle exhaust cited as a key factor.

BHF associate medical director Professor Jeremy Pearson said this supports earlier studies showing that air pollution can thicken the blood, making it more likely to clot.

A University of Edinburgh study published in July suggested that this is due to tiny diesel particles interfering with the functioning of blood vessels.

"If you've been diagnosed with heart disease, try to avoid spending long periods outside in areas where there are likely to be high traffic pollution levels, such as on or near busy roads," Professor Pearson added.