Environmental pollution increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases!

Environmental pollution increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases!

Environmental factors have a significant impact on the health of the cardiovascular system. Current studies show that elements such as fine dust, noise, heat and chemical pollution significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. These findings come from a comprehensive review published in the journalCardiovascular Researchwas published and involved an international research team with experts from Mainz, Copenhagen, Munich, Barcelona, ​​Edinburgh and Boston. Cardiovascular diseases are the most common cause of death worldwide, and in Germany they account for around 40 percent of all deaths, as documented by the Robert Koch Institute.

Cardiovascular diseases include heart attack, stroke, coronary heart disease and high blood pressure. In addition to traditionally known risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, smoking, lack of exercise and unhealthy diet, external environmental stressors are also important. Simultaneous exposure to several of these stressors is particularly damaging, bringing the concept of the multimodal exposome into focus. This model takes into account how environmental pressures interact with each other throughout a person's life course and influence their health.

A multifactorial approach to health

The influence of environmental factors on health is not just theoretical, but firmly rooted in reality. According to an analysis in the specialist journalNature Review CardiologyTwo-thirds of annual deaths worldwide are caused by chronic, non-communicable diseases, with cardiovascular diseases being the largest group. This is further compounded by the aging population and increasing environmental stressors. Experts estimate that about two-thirds of these noncommunicable diseases are caused by environmental exposures, while approximately 16 to 22 percent of global deaths are caused by chemical pollution.

Research shows that factors such as oxidative stress, circadian rhythm disruptions and increased levels of inflammation lead to a higher susceptibility to cardiovascular disease. The role of noise and air pollution is particularly relevant here. In urban areas, nearly 400 people die every day in France from cardiovascular disease, which is the second leading cause of death there.

Prevention through sustainable measures

In order to counteract these worrying development trends, stricter environmental and noise protection laws as well as sustainable urban planning are crucial. Studies have shown that high levels of noise pollution, such as those found in many urban regions, correlate with an increase in ischemic heart disease. Noise disrupts sleep patterns, increases stress hormones and can lead to harmful metabolic changes that increase long-term cardiovascular risk.

Another aspect to consider is ongoing research into the exposome. Advanced methods, such as mobile sensors and satellite-based exposure recording, make it possible to better quantify the interactions between a variety of environmental pollution and their health effects. Such studies are crucial to develop effective prevention strategies against cardiovascular diseases that also focus on individual exposures and their biological effects.

Ultimately, these findings update our understanding of how environmental factors influence cardiovascular health. An integrated approach that considers both individual and collective health factors is essential for improving the overall quality of life in an increasingly urbanized world.

Further information can be found in the detailed reports from Mainz University Medicine, German Center for Cardiovascular Research and Future Sciences.