Oman: Exposure to air pollution can increase the risk of stroke within five days, a new study has found.
Researchers from the University of Jordan’s Department of Medicine reviewed data from 110 observational studies in Asia, Europe, and North and South America.
The study looked at stroke events and the amount of common air pollutants (nitrogen dioxide, ozone, carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide) within five days of the event.
Dr. Ahmed Tubasi, the head of the research, said that air pollution not only affects the lungs and eyes, but also affects the brain and cardiovascular system.
The study also examined exposure to particulate matter (fine particles of dust or smoke that can be harmful when inhaled).
The study also included 1.8 million cases of ischemic stroke (the most common type of stroke in which an artery to the brain is blocked).
Researchers in the study found a 30 percent increase in the risk of stroke in people exposed to nitrogen dioxide up to five days earlier. While exposure to carbon monoxide increased by 26 percent, sulfur dioxide by 15 percent and ozone by 5 percent.
Studies have shown an increase in stroke deaths with exposure to certain pollutants. Exposure to nitrogen dioxide increased the risk of death by 33 percent and sulfur dioxide by 60 percent.
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