Effects of PM2.5 Reduction Interventions on Cardiovascular Indicators: A Meta-analysis.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Cardiovascular Science
• Public Health Interventions

Background:

• Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is linked to cardiovascular disease.
• The efficacy of individual-level interventions for reducing PM2.5 exposure and its cardiovascular impact requires clarification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the cardiovascular effects of four categories of PM2.5 reduction interventions.
• To assess the impact on blood pressure, endothelial function, heart rate variability, and inflammatory markers.

Main Methods:

• A meta-analysis of 72 trials involving 6,063 participants (ages 12.4-82).
• Systematic literature search across major databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library) for studies from December 2002 to March 2025.
• Interventions categorized into HEPA filters, respiratory protection, improved cookstoves, and behavioral methods.

Main Results:

• PM2.5 reduction interventions significantly lowered systolic blood pressure (SBP) by 1.97 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) by 1.08 mmHg.
• C-reactive protein (CRP) levels decreased significantly, indicating reduced systemic inflammation.
• Air filtration interventions demonstrated the most substantial reduction in SBP.

Conclusions:

• Individual-level PM2.5 reduction interventions can lead to significant cardiovascular benefits, including lower blood pressure.
• These interventions effectively reduce systemic inflammation markers.
• Personal strategies for mitigating PM2.5 exposure are viable for improving cardiovascular health.