As detrimental to your heart as they are to your lungs, diesel fumes pose significant risks.
It’s not a revelation that requires a genius to comprehend; researchers in Scotland have discovered that the minute particles generated during diesel combustion are detrimental to blood vessels, heightening the risk of blood clots in arteries, which can result in heart attacks or strokes.
The University of Edinburgh’s study assessed the effects of diesel exhaust on healthy participants at pollution levels typical in heavily affected urban areas.
The scientists analyzed the reactions of individuals to the gas components of diesel fumes, including carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide, as opposed to those triggered by ultrafine chemical particles resulting from exhaust emissions.
Funded by the British Heart Foundation, the research revealed that it is the minuscule particles—not the gases—that hinder the functionality of blood vessels that regulate blood flow to various organs in the body.
The ‘invisible’ particles, measuring under a millionth of a meter, can be captured from exhaust fumes by installing specialized particle traps on vehicles.
In the U.S., particle traps are already being retrofitted to public transportation vehicles to alleviate the adverse effects of pollution.
Dr. Mark Miller from the university’s Centre for Cardiovascular Science stated, “Although many people tend to associate air pollution with lung damage, there is compelling evidence indicating that it also affects the heart and blood vessels.”
“Our study illustrates that while both gases and particles can influence our blood pressure, it’s really the incredibly small chemical particles emitted by vehicle exhausts that pose the greatest threat.”
“These particles generate highly reactive molecules known as free radicals which can damage our blood vessels, leading to vascular diseases.”
“We are currently exploring which chemicals carried by these particles contribute to these damaging effects, aiming to eliminate these substances in the future to prevent health issues associated with vehicle emissions.”
Researchers advocate for the assessment of environmental health measures aimed at reducing emissions to determine their impact on the frequency of heart attacks.
Professor Jeremy Pearson, associate medical director at the British Heart Foundation, commented, “For quite some time, we’ve recognized air pollution as a significant concern for heart health, which is why we are supporting this Edinburgh team in their ongoing essential research.”
“Their results imply that reducing these harmful nanoparticles from exhaust could save lives—potentially by removing them from the fuel or encouraging manufacturers to integrate devices that trap particles before they’re released. The optimal solution is still uncertain.”
“In the meantime, our guidance remains unchanged: individuals with heart conditions should steer clear of prolonged exposure to areas prone to high traffic pollution, such as on or near busy roads.”
by John Jackson
