September 14, 2001—Exposure to occupational and environmental air pollutants can alter heart rates in young, seemingly healthy hearts, researchers report in a recent issue of Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association. These altered heart rates may play a role in the development of cardiovascular disease.
This study is the first to examine exposure to air pollution particles in a younger population. It is also the first to focus on air pollution in the work environment. Researchers studied 40 men, average age 38, working as boilermakers in Boston. Such workers are exposed to many air particles that are similar to those in the general environment, but at a higher concentration.
The findings of detectable disturbances in autonomic function in this young, otherwise healthy population is of concern, the authors write. Previous studies have shown that heart rate variability is decreased in heart conditions such as coronary artery disease and heart rhythm disturbances, but researchers say further research is needed to understand the significance of these findings. For more information, contact the American Heart Association.
