Using satellite data and ground measurements, researchers in New England have shown that the elderly are at increased risk for hospitalization after long-term exposure to fine particle air pollution. For each 10 µg/m3 increase in long-term exposure to particulates measuring <2.5 microns, there was a 3.12% increase in cardiovascular disease, 3.49% increase in stroke, and 6.33% increase in diabetes. The authors noted potential mechanisms for these findings, but indicated that a lack of data on individual confounders was a limitation.
PositiveTip: When possible, avoid long-term exposure to air pollution, and consistently make healthy choices in other areas of life.