Duke-NUS: Air Pollution Linked to Cardiac Arrests in Singapore
Research in Singapore establishes a link between fine air pollution particles (PM2.5) and out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. Even minor reductions in pollution levels can significantly decrease the risk.
Scientists at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore have identified a significant association between exposure to fine air pollution particles, specifically PM2.5, and cardiac arrests occurring outside of hospitals. The study, published in The Lancet Public Health, utilized data from 2010 to 2018.
The research team analyzed 18,131 cases of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and compared them with daily levels of PM2.5. Their findings indicated that 492 of these events could be attributed to increases in PM2.5 concentrations on the day of the arrest or up to two days prior. The study also noted a relatively short-term effect, with risk decreasing significantly three to five days after exposure.
According to the study's statistical analysis, a decrease of just one microgram per cubic meter in PM2.5 concentration was associated with an eight percent reduction in OHCA events. A reduction of three micrograms per cubic meter correlated with a 30 percent decrease. Lead investigator Adjunct Assistant Professor Joel Aik stated that efforts to lower air pollution levels could play a crucial role in reducing sudden cardiac arrests in Singapore.
Professor Marcus Ong, another lead researcher, emphasized that the results highlight the substantial impact of air quality on public health and should encourage policy interventions. He suggested measures such as phasing out internal combustion engine vehicles and recommended that individuals consider wearing high-efficiency masks during periods of elevated PM2.5 levels.