Research indicates that air pollution is a factor in the development of blocked arteries.

A recent study indicates that exposure to air pollution may play a role in the development of clogged arteries. Researchers presented findings Thursday at the annual Radiological Society of North America meeting in Chicago, revealing that long-term exposure to common air pollutants increases the risk of severe heart disease caused by artery hardening.

The investigation found that even pollution levels at or below current governmental limits were connected to early signs of cardiovascular disease. "Even minimal exposure to air pollution is linked to more plaque accumulation in the coronary arteries," said Dr. Felipe Castillo Aravena, a cardiothoracic imaging fellow at the University of Toronto.

Data showed that the longer a person was exposed to polluted air, the higher their likelihood of having obstructed arteries. The study followed over 11,000 adults treated at three hospitals in Toronto, combining chest CT scans with environmental data based on patients home postal codes to estimate air pollution exposure.

Key results indicated that for every 1 microgram per cubic meter rise in particulate matter exposure over time, there was:

• An 11% increase in calcium deposits within the coronary arteries
• A 13% higher probability of developing arterial plaques
• A 23% elevated risk of heart disease due to blocked arteries

Exposure to nitrogen dioxide also showed similar, though smaller, effects. Differences were observed between sexes: in women, long-term fine particulate exposure correlated with higher calcium scores and more pronounced artery narrowing, while in men it was linked to both higher calcium levels and greater plaque buildup.

While the study highlights strong associations between air pollution and heart health, it does not prove direct causation. Researchers emphasize the need for further studies to clarify the mechanisms behind air pollution's impact on the cardiovascular system and to establish a definitive causal link.

"This is among the largest studies connecting contemporary levels of gaseous and particulate pollution with multiple coronary artery disease markers assessed via cardiac CT," said Dr. Kate Hanneman, cardiac radiologist and vice chair of research at the University of Toronto. "Heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, and our findings support the notion that air pollution is a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Further research is essential to understand the differences observed between men and women."

Experts note that findings shared at medical conferences are preliminary until published in peer-reviewed journals.

Author: Lucas Grant