The Impact of Environmental Toxins on Cardiovascular Diseases

Environmental toxins pose significant risks to human health and are considered major contributors to chronic diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Numerous studies have highlighted the detrimental impact of environmental toxicity on cardiovascular health. The primary sources of environmental toxins include pollutants containing particulate matter and organic substances, such as sulfate, nitrates, ammonium, elemental carbon, crystal elements, arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), and Bisphenol A (BPA). Epidemiological research has closely monitored the link between environmental toxins and CVDs. Notably, aerosols and particulate matter, including PM10 and PM2.5, prevalent in ambient air pollution, have been implicated in various CVDs like ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, and dysrhythmia. Additionally, heavy metals such as lead and pesticides from environmental toxins are known to contribute to CVDs, even at low levels of exposure over extended periods. Mercury exposure, even at low concentrations, can adversely affect multiple organs, including the heart, kidneys, nervous system, and immune system. With Pb2+ ions exhibiting Ca2+-like properties, lead disrupts various pathways and can lead to cardiac and vascular lesions and functional impairments when blood lead concentrations exceed 100 µg% in adults and 60 µg% in children. Furthermore, cadmium exposure is higher in smokers, primarily due to tobacco use, and is associated with peripheral artery disease. Arsenic toxicity is well-documented, particularly its cardiotoxic effects, which can result in fatal and irreversible myocardial damage. Bisphenol A (BPA) has also been found in urine samples, underscoring its presence as an environmental toxin impacting human health.