Heart disease tops the charts as the global leading cause of death. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 18 million, or 32% of, global deaths occur annually because of heart disease. Heart disease (also known as cardiovascular disease) includes a range of conditions such as hypertension, coronary artery disease and heart failure, to name a few. Numerous environmental factors contribute to this deadly disease. 

One of the most significant environmental factors influencing heart health is air pollution. Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5) is a mixture of fine particles 30 times smaller than a human hair and can come from cars, factories and fires. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and carbon dioxide (CO) are among the key pollutants linked to cardiovascular disease. These pollutants penetrate deep into the respiratory system and enter the bloodstream, causing systemic inflammation and oxidative stress.

Exposure to air pollution triggers inflammatory responses, increasing the risk of fatty deposit buildup, which is called atherosclerosis. This inflammation also causes an increase in blood pressure. Long-term exposure to PM2.5 has been associated with an increased risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack) and stroke.

Chemical pollutants, including heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs), also increase risk factors for cardiovascular health. Common sources include industrial emissions, pesticides, occupational exposure and contaminated water. Lead exposure, even low-level exposure, can also cause hypertension and vascular damage.

Increased temperatures and extreme weather events elevate the risk of heat-related illnesses, heat stroke and dehydration, causing a strain in the cardiovascular system. The elderly and individuals with pre-existing heart conditions are at high risk during heat waves.

Climate change worsens air pollution by increasing the frequency and intensity of wildfires, which release significant amounts of PM10, another harmful pollutant. Additionally, higher temperatures can increase ground-level ozone formation, a pollutant associated with impaired cardiovascular stress and lung function.

Socioeconomic determinations include education, access to healthcare, income and food security and can significantly influence the relationship between environmental health and heart disease. Impoverished communities often face higher environmental risk exposure, such as poor air quality and housing closer to industrial sites.

The notion of environmental justice emphasizes the disproportionate burden of environmental hazards on lower incomed communities. Addressing these disparities required targeted interventions involving stricter pollution controls in vulnerable areas and improved access to education and healthcare.

To reduce prevalence of heart disease by way of environmental risk factors, there must be an all-hands on deck approach including public awareness, technological innovations and policy changes. Policies such as the Clean Air Act  have reduced air pollution levels in the U.S., resulting in significant public health benefits. The Paris Agreement is an international agreement endeavoring to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change.

Educating the public about the impact of environmental factors on heart health is essential. Lifestyle changes, including pollutant exposure reductions, a heart healthy diet and increased physical activity can decrease risks. Technology advancement, such as renewable energy, air purification systems and electric vehicles have reduced environmental pollutants.

The relationship between environmental health and heart disease highlights the need for intense strategies to address environmental risks. Chemical exposures, climate change, air pollution and socioeconomic factors all contribute to the global burden of cardiovascular disease. By effective policy implementation, innovative technology advances and increased public awareness, we can reduce the risks and improve heart health outcomes. Addressing environmental health is not only a priority for public health but also imperative to ensure a healthier future for generations to come.

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