How Do Environmental Toxins Affect Cardiovascular Health?
Environmental toxins such as air pollutants, heavy metals, and pesticides can have detrimental effects on cardiovascular health. These substances can induce oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction, which are key pathways in the development of cardiovascular diseases like hypertension, atherosclerosis, and myocardial infarction. Studies have shown that long-term exposure to pollutants like particulate matter is associated with increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.