Air pollution is an insidious threat to cardiovascular health, contributing to global public health crisis

Air pollution significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, contributing to a global health crisis. This article explores the impact of air pollution on heart health, discusses chronic heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and the importance of timely medical intervention.

- RITWIK MUKHERJEE

With more than four decades of experience, he is known as an expert in performing Angioplasties, Mitral Balloon Dilations, Peripheral Vascular and Carotid Interventions.

As President-Elect of Cardiological Society of India (CSI), he has his priorities well cut out—to educate and economically empower patients.

He minces no word in admitting that Bengal's ambitious and much-hyped Swastha Sathi scheme have worked wonders in economically empowering patients from even the most vulnerable section of the society. 'Even a rickshaw-puller or a small sabjiwala can now avail of the best treatment and the best hospitals. That's the beauty,' he says.

Some of the health schemes at the national level have also come in handy.

Speaking to The Statesman, Dr Dhiman Kahali, Director of Interventional Cardiology, BM Birla Heart Research Centre and President-elect of Cardiological Society of India, delves at length on wide-ranging issues—from heart diseases caused by air pollution, lifestyle aspects and the most modern treatment facilities that are coming up.

Excerpts:

Q: Pollution and air pollution, in general, is a hot topic now. Air pollution is increasingly recognised as a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, contributing to a global public health crisis.

What do you have to say about it? How does air pollution affect cardiovascular health?

A: Actually, fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and other pollutants have been linked to the development and worsening of conditions such as heart attacks, stroke, and chronic heart failure. Prolonged exposure to these harmful substances can lead to inflammation, oxidative stress, and vascular damage, ultimately compromising heart health.

Air pollution is an insidious threat to cardiovascular health, affecting millions worldwide.