Ambient air pollution is linked to cardiovascular admissions and deaths

What the study found: The review found limited evidence on air pollution and cardiovascular disease in low-income and lower-middle-income countries, but the meta-analysis identified positive associations between several ambient air pollutants and cardiovascular hospital admissions and mortality.

Why the authors say this matters: The authors say there is a vital need for more research in underrepresented regions, especially on long-term exposure, to establish the true burden of air pollution on cardiovascular health where air pollution is often high or healthcare access is limited.

What the researchers tested: The researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis on ambient air pollution and cardiovascular diseases in low- and lower-middle-income countries.

What worked and what didn't: The meta-analysis found positive associations between several ambient air pollutants and cardiovascular hospital admissions and mortality. The abstract also notes that the overall evidence base in these settings is limited.

What to keep in mind: The abstract describes limited evidence and says more research is needed, particularly in underrepresented regions and on long-term exposure. No other limitations are described in the available summary.

Key points

• The review focused on ambient air pollution and cardiovascular disease in low-income and lower-middle-income countries.
• The meta-analysis found positive associations between several ambient air pollutants and cardiovascular hospital admissions and mortality.
• The authors describe the existing evidence as limited.
• The authors call for more research in underrepresented regions, especially on long-term exposure.