Air pollution ‘increases risk of heart issue’

AIR pollution increases the risk of developing a potentially deadly irregular heartbeat, according to research.

On days when levels are high the life threatening episodes, known as arrhythmias, are more common.

The finding is based on patients in Piacenza, northern Italy, who had been fitted with battery powered chest devices called ICDS (implantable cardioverter defibrillators).

Lead author Dr Alessia Zanni, previously at Piacenza Hospital, said: “Our study suggests people at high risk of ventricular arrhythmias, such as those with an ICD, should check daily pollution levels.

“When particulate matter (PM)

2.5 and PM 10 concentrations are high [above 35 μg/m3 and 50 μg/m3, respectively], it would be sensible to stay indoors as much as possible and wear an N95 mask outside, particularly in areas of heavy traffic. An air purifier can be used at home.”

The toxic microscopic particles are emitted by traffic and industry and measured in micrograms per cubic metre.

Outdoor air pollution kills an estimated 4.2 million people every year, according to the World Health Organisation.