Short-term exposure to air pollution may increase stroke risk

Short-Term Exposure to Air Pollution Linked to Increased Risk of Stroke, Study Finds

A recent meta-analysis published in the September 27, 2023, online issue of Neurology^®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, suggests that short-term exposure to air pollution may be associated with an increased risk of stroke. The study focused on short-term exposure, defined as occurring within five days of the stroke.

Prior research has established a connection between long-term exposure to air pollution and an increased risk of stroke. However, the correlation between short-term exposure and stroke has been less clear. In this study, we examined just five days of exposure and found a link between short-term exposure to air pollution and an increased risk of stroke.

– Ahmad Toubasi, MD, study author, University of Jordan in Amman

Study Details

The meta-analysis involved a review of 110 studies, encompassing more than 18 million cases of stroke. The researchers analyzed various pollutants, including nitrogen dioxide, ozone, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide.

• Nitrogen dioxide
• Ozone
• Carbon monoxide
• Sulfur dioxide

The study also examined different sizes of particulate matter, such as PM1 (air pollution less than 1 micron in diameter), PM2.5, and PM10. PM2.5 includes inhalable particles from motor vehicle exhaust, the burning of fuels by power plants and other industries, as well as forest and grass fires. PM10 includes dust from roads and construction sites.

Key Findings

The analysis revealed that individuals exposed to higher concentrations of various types of air pollution had an increased risk of stroke:

• Nitrogen dioxide: 28% increase
• Ozone: 5% increase
• Carbon monoxide: 26% increase
• Sulfur dioxide: 15% increase
• PM1: 9% increase
• PM2.5: 15% increase
• PM10: 14% increase

Furthermore, higher levels of air pollution were associated with a higher risk of death from stroke:

• Nitrogen dioxide: 33% increase
• Sulfur dioxide: 60% increase
• PM2.5: 9% increase
• PM10: 2% increase

“There is a strong and significant association between air pollution and the occurrence of stroke, as well as death from stroke within five days of exposure,” Toubasi stated. “This highlights the importance of global efforts to create policies that reduce air pollution. Doing so may reduce the number of strokes and their consequences.”

Limitations

A limitation of this meta-analysis is that most of the studies were conducted in high-income countries, with limited data available from low- and middle-income countries.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 13: Climate Action.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
• Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
• Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, the article mentions indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

• Increased risk of stroke and death from stroke due to air pollution exposure.
• Association between air pollution and stroke occurrence within five days of exposure.
• Link between short-term exposure to air pollution and increased risk of stroke.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Based on the article, these targets and indicators highlight the need for global efforts to reduce air pollution and create policies that improve air quality. By addressing these targets, progress can be made towards reducing the number of strokes and their consequences, as well as improving overall health and well-being.

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: news-medical.net

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