A new study suggests that long-term exposure to air pollution increases the risk of blood clots in the veins that carry blood to the heart, which can lead to serious complications, including death.
The recent US study, which included three types of air pollution, was published in the journal Blood.
According to the study, exposure to air pollution can cause inflammation and contribute to blood clots. It has long been linked to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Previous research has also found a link between pollution and venous thromboembolism (VTE).
About 900,000 Americans suffer from VTE each year, while in addition to air pollution, age, surgery, prolonged periods of inactivity, heart disease, pregnancy and genetics can also increase the risk of the disease.
Venous thromboembolism occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein in the legs, arms or an internal organ. Pulmonary embolism occurs when this blood clot travels to a vein that goes to the lungs.
