When we think of the risks of breathing polluted air, what usually comes to mind are health problems like asthema, COPD or lung cancers. Certainly those risks are real. But according to the US Environmental Protection Agency, the evidence linking air pollution to heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems is stronger than for lung disease, cancer or any other illness.
Of the many possible pollutants in the air we breath, two are of particular concern with respect to heart health: ozone and very tiny particles and droplets measuring about 2.5 microns (around 1/30th the thickness of a human hair). The source of most of these pollutants is the residue from burning fossil fuels, although in the western US forest fires are an increasingly significant concern.
It is not well understood how these pollutants increase your risk of heart trouble. Among the possibilities being investigated are inflammation caused by inhaling particulates, destabilization of plaque already formed in blood vessels and elevating blood pressure. Some populations are at greater risk than others, particularly those over 65 years old, people who already have any sort of lung problems, existing heart disease, diabetes or anyone with a compromised immune system.
And, of course, pollution in some places is far worse than in others. (To learn the current air quality where you live go to AirNow.gov and enter your zip code.)
In the short term, there is not a lot you can do if you are regularly exposed to dangerously polluted air. HEPA filters on your home heating and cooling system can help. As can a high efficiency auto air filter and using the air conditioning when driving. But short of moving to a place with better air quality, all you can do it be aware of current conditions and stay inside when it is particularly bad.
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