The researchers analyzed health and air pollution gathered from nearly 1,600 countries across the US between 2005 and 2010. The study focused on adults over the age of 35.
The researchers focused on a type of air pollution known as PM 2.5, which contains inhalable particles produced by diesel engines and coal, biomass, and kerosene burning. These particles are known to cause health problems if they enter the circulatory system.
A bit over half of the counties studied had particle levels of PM 2.5 that exceeded federal regulations.
It was uncovered that the dirtier the air, the shorter the life expectancy of residents along with a higher risk of stroke death. This threat was even higher in areas of greater poverty and fewer health care providers.
Those living in the south had the most significant exposure to PM 2.5, which suggests that air pollution may be a contributing factor to the south’s high stroke rate. Other contributing factors are poverty, poor diet, lack of exercise, and poor access to health services.
Lead study author Dr. Longjian Liu explained, “To reduce the risk of stroke, clinicians should consider their patients’ likely exposure to air pollution along with other risk factors. Clinicians can then encourage at-risk patients to take measures to reduce their exposure when possible, such as avoiding significant roadways during rush hour traffic, keeping car windows closed and setting the air conditioner to circulate internal air.”
Future studies will look at the possible link between PM 2.5 and other health problems.