Ambient air pollution exposure : risk of cardiovascular morbidity among adults

Abstract

Overview of the topic: Ambient air pollution (AAP) has increased exponentially over the years, and this review sought to investigate the impact of high and lower air pollutant levels on developing CVD among adults. Research question: Does ambient air pollution increase the risk of cardiovascular disease among adults? PICO elements: Population (P): Adults, Exposure (E): High levels of air pollution exposure, Comparison (C): Lower levels of air pollution exposure, Outcome (O): Develop cardiovascular disease. Method: The key terms for each PICO element were produced and the search terms were combined using the search tools. Limiters were used to narrow the search. Seven databases were used to conduct the search whereas the PRISMA diagram was used to detail the research process. Irrelevant articles were removed by using the inclusion and exclusion criteria. One systematic review & meta-analysis, five cohort studies, and one cross-sectional study were the selected articles appraised by the CASP tool. Results and Conclusions: The evaluation of these studies exposed some flaws and limitations in methodology. The evidence-based research results indicated that high and sometimes low exposure levels of PM2.5, NO2, O3 and UFPs contribute to a strong statistically significant increase in CVD incidence among adults. Future research needs to be conducted on different AAP exposure levels to corroborate the findings of this dissertation. Implications and Recommendations: The high-risk adult population should be thoroughly informed about the risk of AAPs by using the health risk assessment tool. HCPs should be equipped with the latest evidence-based knowledge, guidance and protocols about this topic to inform their patients about preventive measures to counteract risks posed by AAP exposure. New effective plans, public policies and awareness should be raised by governments and medical entities.