Study: Air Pollution Linked to Abnormal Left Ventricular Diastolic Function

A recent study published in BMC Public Health investigated the associations between abnormal left ventricular diastolic function (ALVDF) and ambient air pollution.

Background

Air pollution has been a significant concern for global public health, with over 90% of the world’s population exposed to particulate matter 2.5 (PM_2.5) levels higher than the air quality guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO).

Evidence suggests that the burden of air pollution-related cardiovascular disease (CVD) is greater than previous estimates. Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction is an early cardiac dysfunction sign that predicts non-fatal and fatal cardiovascular events.

Moderate or mild diastolic dysfunction has been linked to an increased mortality risk in asymptomatic individuals. Although the association of air pollution with CVD morbidity and mortality is well documented, there is limited evidence of the relationship between cardiac imaging phenotypes and air pollutants.

Previously, the study’s authors reported that the relationship between CVD and diastolic dysfunction worsened with ambient air pollution. Regardless, the impact of air pollution on left ventricular function in large populations is unclear.

About the Study

In the present study, researchers investigated the associations between exposure to ambient air pollutants and ALVDF. They obtained data from an extensive cross-sectional survey conducted in China, which included individuals aged 35 or older from 14 provinces. Ventricular function was evaluated using echocardiography.

Diastolic dysfunction was categorized into grades I (impaired relaxation pattern), II (pseudo-normal), and III (severe). The average annual concentrations of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), PM_2.5, and PM₁₀, were obtained from an air quality dataset for 2013-18. The effect of average annual air pollutant levels was investigated.

Data Collection

Standardized questionnaires were administered to capture data on demographics, lifestyle behaviors, medical history, and family CVD history. Participants were instructed to provide information on indoor ventilation or air pollution, solid fuel usage, and exposure to passive smoke.

The altitudes of surveyed sites were estimated, and participants’ blood pressure and body weight were measured. Blood specimens were collected after eight hours of overnight fasting.

Data Analysis

Group differences were compared using the chi-squared test. Multivariate logistic regression calculated odds ratios for the association between air pollution and diastolic function.

Models were adjusted for sex, age, urbanicity, ethnicity, habitation altitude, smoking or drinking status, obesity, family CVD history, education, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, solid fuel use, and second-hand smoke exposure.

Findings

The researchers identified more than 30,000 participants; of these, 630 and 3,423 individuals were excluded due to prior CVD history and missing echocardiography data, respectively. In total, 25,983 individuals were included for analysis. Subjects were aged, on average, 56.8, and 46.5% were males, and the crude ALVDF prevalence was 50.8%.

The average annual concentrations of NO₂, PM_2.5, and PM₁₀ were 29.87 μg/m³, 62.77 μ

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
   • Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease.

2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • 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.
   • Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g., PM2.5 and PM10) in cities (population-weighted).

The article addresses the issue of air pollution and its association with abnormal left ventricular diastolic function (ALVDF), which is related to cardiovascular disease. This connects to SDG 3, specifically Target 3.4, which aims to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases. The indicator 3.4.1, which measures the mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, can be used to measure progress towards this target.

The article also highlights the impact of air pollution on the environment, specifically air quality in cities. This aligns with SDG 11, particularly Target 11.6, which focuses on reducing the adverse environmental impact of cities, including air quality. The indicator 11.6.2, which measures the annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) in cities, can be used to track progress towards this target.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

The table summarizes the relevant SDGs, targets, and indicators identified based on the analysis of the article. SDG 3 focuses on good health and well-being, specifically addressing the reduction of premature mortality from non-communicable diseases. SDG 11 emphasizes sustainable cities and communities, with a focus on reducing the adverse environmental impact of cities, including air quality. The corresponding targets and indicators provide specific goals and measures to track progress towards these SDGs.

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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