Smog Increases Heart Attack Risk

Exposing yourself to smog can place you on a high health risk. The thick smog that smothers many Canadian cities and some Europeans countries in the summer can trigger heart attacks within two hours. Smog contains particles, tiny, invisible pollutants discharged primarily by automobiles, power plant and fireplaces. Patients who are already susceptible to heart attacks, as a result of some health problem such as diabetics, people with heart disease or seniors, can experience a 48% rise in their risk of a heart attack in the two hours after being exposed to severe air pollution containing particulates. The risk increased to 62% in 24 hours. It is important that we consider our health condition when smog warnings are issued, try and spend more time indoors, preferably with the air condition on. These particles are so small they do penetrate into indoor air and air condition will filter them out.