Cardiovascular disease is a general term to define conditions affecting the functions of the heart or blood vessels. Most of the heart health problems are the result of atherosclerosis or the growth of plaque in the walls of the arteries. For the people with heart disease, it can result in blood clots, creating a blockage for the blood flows and leading to a heart attack or stroke.  

Exposure to ultrafine and particulate pollutants is one of the key risk factors for cardiovascular disease. A study done by EPA and others has found that exposure to the high level of PM2.5 can trigger the chances of cardiovascular disease-related heart attacks and death. Longer-term exposure can lead to increased risk of cardiovascular mortality and decreases in life expectancy.  

The evidence is especially strong for fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other pollutants found in the air indoor.

How Can Ultrafine Particles Affect Cardiovascular Functions?

Ultrafine particles are particles with a diameter of less than 0.1 micrometres, which are released into the air from a variety of sources, including combustion processes and vehicle emissions. These tiny particles have been shown to disrupt cardiovascular functions in a number of ways, which can contribute to the development of heart disease and other cardiovascular disorders.

Inflammation:

Ultrafine particles can trigger an inflammatory response in the body. When these particles are inhaled, they can penetrate deep into the lungs and reach the bloodstream, where they can activate immune cells and increase the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This chronic inflammation can lead to endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis, and other cardiovascular disorders.

Oxidative Stress:

Ultrafine particles can also increase oxidative stress in the body. When these particles are inhaled, they can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can damage cells and contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. Oxidative stress can also impair the function of the endothelium, the lining of the blood vessels that is responsible for regulating blood flow and preventing clot formation.

Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction:

Exposure to ultrafine particles can disrupt the autonomic nervous system, which regulates heart rate, blood pressure, and other cardiovascular functions. Ultrafine particles have been shown to alter heart rate variability, which can increase the risk of arrhythmia and other cardiovascular disorders.

Endothelial Dysfunction:

Ultrafine particles can impair the function of the endothelium, which can lead to atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular disorders. These particles can reduce the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that is important for regulating blood flow and preventing clot formation. They can also increase the production of endothelin-1, a molecule that can constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure.

Effective Measures to Reduce the Exposure to Harmful Pollutants:

Certain interventions can help mitigate these adverse effects. At an individual level, this includes the use of a facemask and indoor air purification system. Instead of selecting an ordinary air purifier for home, you should go for an advanced solution that can capture most of the ultrafine particles to offer pollution-free indoor environment.

PetriMed CA air purification system is one of the few options, engineered with the latest HEPA H14, preactivated carbon filter, pre-filter, UVC and air ioniser. With designed efficiency of 99.999%, it can be a perfect choice for those with cardiovascular conditions.