Impact of Environmental Pollutants on Cardiopulmonary Health

Background: The increasing prevalence of cardiopulmonary diseases globally is linked to environmental pollutants, which are known to contribute to oxidative stress and subsequent health issues. With over 7 million annual deaths attributed to poor air quality, these pollutants represent a critical public health concern that warrants further investigation.

Method: This is a cross-sectional study analyzing data from over 5,000 participants across urban areas. The study employed standardized health assessments, spirometry for lung function measurement, and monitored environmental pollutant levels through air quality indices. Statistical analyses included multivariate regression models to account for confounding variables.

Result: Higher exposure to particulate matter (PM2.5) was associated with a 30% decrease in lung function (FEV1) and a 25% increase in hospital admissions for respiratory diseases, with 95% confidence intervals (P<0.001). Additionally, oxidative stress markers in serum were significantly elevated in individuals exposed to higher pollutant levels.

Conclusion: The findings support the role of environmental pollutants in impairing cardiopulmonary health, emphasizing the need for regulatory measures to reduce air pollution levels. These results are particularly significant for urban populations, highlighting the importance of public health initiatives focusing on environmental health and air quality improvements. Limitations include the cross-sectional design, which restricts causal inference.

Original citation address: https://www.besjournal.com/en/article/doi/10.3967/bes2025.087