Impact of Environmental Pollution on Respiratory and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Public Health Perspective (Published)
Environmental pollution has emerged as one of the most critical global public health challenges, significantly contributing to the burden of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. This study investigates the relationship between major environmental pollutants particularly particulate matter (PM₂.₅, PM₁₀), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and ozone (O₃) and adverse health outcomes. Using a comprehensive public health perspective, the research integrates epidemiological data, exposure-response modeling, and comparative risk assessment to evaluate the extent of disease incidence associated with pollution exposure. The findings reveal a strong positive correlation between long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅) and increased incidence of chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as cardiovascular conditions including ischemic heart disease and hypertension. Short-term exposure spikes were also found to trigger acute events such as myocardial infarction and respiratory distress. The study highlights disparities in exposure among urban populations and vulnerable groups, emphasizing the urgent need for integrated environmental and health policies. The results underscore that reducing pollution levels can significantly decrease morbidity and mortality rates, offering substantial public health and economic benefits. This research provides a critical foundation for policymakers and healthcare systems to implement evidence-based interventions aimed at mitigating pollution-related health risks.
Keywords: Environmental Pollution, air pollution exposure, cardiovascular diseases, public health, respiratory diseases