A growing risk factor for stroke in older adults – Firstpost

A growing risk factor for stroke in older adults – Firstpost

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Particulate matter PM2.5 and PM10 pose significant health risks including stroke. Preventive action is essential to reduce the harmful effects of air pollution, particularly for vulnerable populations by identifying the sources of particulate matter pollution, we can strive for cleaner air and improved health outcomes.
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Exposure to air pollution has been recognised as a leading cause of mortality and morbidity, responsible for 6.5 million deaths and 167.3 million disability-adjusted life years in 2015, according to the National Library of Medicine.

In emerging economies such as India and China, air pollution ranks among the top five risk factors for mortality.

Particulate Matter (PM): A key concern

Particulate Matter (PM) refers to inhalable particles, including sulfate, nitrates, and black carbon, with PM2.5 and PM10 being the most relevant to health.

Sources of PM:

– Coarse particles (PM10): pollen, sea spray, wind-blown dust from erosion, agricultural spaces, roadways, and mining operations

– Fine particles (PM2.5): combustion of fuels in power generation, industries, vehicles, and household activities like cooking and heating

**-**The combustion of polluting fuels in open hearths or poorly ventilated stoves and heaters is the greatest source of PM around homes.

Particulate Matter in the air: A leading cause of stroke

According to Dr Praveen Gupta, Principal Director of Neurology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute (Gurugram), particulate matter in the air is one of the top five risk factors for stroke, particularly in older individuals.

Citing WHO data, Dr Gupta stated that air pollution increases stroke risk by approximately 25%.

Particulate matter can access the brain through the olfactory route or gastro-lung barriers, causing oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions, Dr Gupta said, adding that this can damage blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis, narrowing, and clot formation, ultimately resulting in brain stroke.

“This is particularly prominent in older people with other stroke risk factors. Reducing particulate matter is crucial, and this can be achieved by using clean fuels for vehicles and proper filters,” he added.

Possible solutions to this problem

Dr Gupta recommended the following measures to mitigate PM pollution:

– Keep windows closed while driving in congested areas

– Avoid smoking both outside and inside your home

– Refrain from using burners and heaters

– Ensure doors and windows remain closed to prevent outside air from entering

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