Particulate matter, especially fine particles (PM2.5), is the air pollutant most strongly associated with cardiovascular disease.

Particulate matter can contribute to cardiovascular disease through various mechanisms, including damaging the heart muscle, increasing inflammation in the body, and causing blood clots to form.

Children, elderly adults, and people with existing heart conditions are all more susceptible to the adverse effects of air pollution on cardiovascular health.

Oxidative stress is the process by which air pollution can cause inflammation in the body. This inflammation can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Nitrogen dioxide is the air pollutant most strongly associated with an increased risk of stroke.

Reducing air pollution can help improve cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation in the body, improving blood flow, and lowering blood pressure.

Promoting the use of renewable energy sources, encouraging the use of public transportation, and reducing the use of fossil fuels are all strategies that can help reduce air pollution and improve air quality.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the government agency responsible for regulating air quality in the United States.

Cardiotoxicity is the term for the process by which air pollution can damage the heart muscle.

Atherosclerosis is the term for the narrowing of the arteries due to the buildup of plaque.

Ischemia is the term for the reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.

Arrhythmia is the term for the irregular heartbeat.

Particulate matter is the term for the small particles in the air that can be inhaled deep into the lungs.

Nitrogen dioxide is the term for the gas that is produced by burning fossil fuels and is a major component of smog.

Carbon monoxide is the term for the gas that is produced by incomplete combustion and is a major component of vehicle exhaust.