Air pollution and cardiovascular diseases: A position paper

Abstract

Air pollution is one of the main environmental risk factors for health and is linked to cardiovascular diseases, which are the leading cause of mortality worldwide. In this position paper, we discuss the main air pollutants and how they can promote the development of cardiovascular disease or cardiovascular events. We also summarise the main evidence supporting the association between air pollution and cardiovascular events, such as coronary events (acute coronary syndromes/myocardial infarction; chronic coronary syndromes), stroke, heart failure and mortality. Some recommendations are made based on these data and the European Society of Cardiology guidelines on cardiovascular disease prevention, acknowledging that it is important to increase awareness and literacy on this topic in Portugal.

Keywords: Air pollution; Burden of disease; Cardiovascular disease; Carga da doença; Cerebrovascular disease; Doença cardiovascular; Doença cardíaca isquémica; Doença cerebrovascular; Ischemic heart disease; Poluição do ar.