Environmental Air Pollution Exposure and Short-Term Cardiovascular Outcomes: A Secondary Analysis of Population-Based Monitoring Data

Abstract

Fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅) is a major component of ambient air pollution and has been associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes. This study examined the relationship between short-term PM₂.₅ exposure and cardiovascular health indicators using population-level environmental and health surveillance datasets. A secondary data analysis was conducted using publicly available air quality monitoring data and population-based health surveillance datasets. Daily ambient PM₂.₅ concentrations were obtained from environmental monitoring networks, and cardiovascular health indicators were derived from surveillance systems reporting cardiovascular symptoms and healthcare utilization. Descriptive statistics summarized exposure patterns, and regression models evaluated associations between short-term PM₂.₅ exposure and cardiovascular indicators after adjustment for demographic and temporal variables. Mean daily PM₂.₅ concentrations ranged between 12–35 µg/m³ during the observation period. Periods with elevated PM₂.₅ exposure were associated with approximately 6–9% increases in reported cardiovascular symptoms and 4–7% higher healthcare utilization for cardiovascular conditions. Regression analyses demonstrated a positive association between short-term PM₂.₅ exposure and cardiovascular indicators after adjustment for covariates, consistent with previous environmental epidemiology studies. Short-term exposure to ambient PM₂.₅ may contribute to measurable increases in cardiovascular health indicators at the population level. Continued monitoring of environmental pollutants and integration with public health surveillance systems may support strategies aimed at reducing air pollution–related cardiovascular risk.