New research finds air pollution significantly impacts heart disease and mortality rates among cancer patients.

According to a paper published in JACC: CardioOncology, disadvantaged populations are disproportionately exposed to higher pollution levels, heightening their risk.

An international team of researchers reviewed literature from 2000 to 2023, identifying eight studies that directly examined the effects of air pollution on cardiovascular health and cancer. 

Their findings indicate that exposure to PM2.5, fine particulates in the air, correlates with increased rates of heart disease incidence and mortality among cancer patients, and vice versa.

“The review underscores the critical need to consider environmental factors, especially air pollution, in cardio-oncology risk assessment and patient management,” says researcher Dr Xiaoquan Rao, a cardiologist at Tongji Hospital, Wuhan, China.

Dr Rao says that air pollution is a recognised risk factor for both cardiovascular diseases and cancer. However, research specifically focusing on its effects in cardio-oncology is limited. The new study aims to address that gap.

The research team found that even short-term exposure to high pollution levels quickly affected cancer patients' heart health. 

“This suggests that even temporary deteriorations in air quality can have immediate adverse effects on vulnerable populations such as cardio-oncology patients,” Dr Rao says.

The review also highlights how air pollution exacerbates health disparities globally. 

Disadvantaged populations often face higher pollution levels, and cancer patients with lower socioeconomic status are at a greater risk of cardiovascular disease mortality linked to air pollution.

“By highlighting the significant role of air pollution in the cardiovascular health of cancer patients, our work aims to catalyse further research in this field and inform clinical practices and public health policies,” Dr Rao said. 

Future research will delve into air pollution-related health disparities across various types of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. 

Additionally, researchers plan to evaluate the effectiveness of environmental interventions in reducing air pollution's impact on cardio-oncology patients.