Chronic exposure to air pollution may increase risk of cardiovascular hospitalization among seniors
1 March 2024 • Article Summary
Topic: PM2.5; Elderly Care; Policy
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
A Harvard study found chronic exposure to fine air pollutants (PM2.5) increases seniors' risk of heart disease hospitalization. Examining data from 60 million people, the study linked higher PM2.5 exposure to increased risk, even at levels above the new EPA standard (9 μg/m3) and below the WHO guideline (5 μg/m3). The study suggests stricter pollution control measures are needed to protect heart health, particularly for vulnerable populations.