The American Heart Association (AHA) recently published a scientific statement in Circulation highlighting evidence that children’s exposure to environmental pollutants may be a key risk factor for developing cardiovascular conditions throughout their lifespan.
In short:
- There’s a well-established association between cardiovascular diseases and exposure to climate change, air pollution and endocrine disrupting chemicals.
- Early life exposure to toxics can have a cumulative effect on a wide range of cardiovascular outcomes, including congenital heart disease, vascular health, and risk factors like obesity and diabetes.
- Because children are still undergoing development, they’re even more sensitive to these harmful exposures than adults.
Key quote:
“Because children are particularly dependent on their caregivers to address their health concerns, this scientific statement highlights the need for clinicians, research scientists, and policymakers to focus more on the linkages of environmental exposures with cardiovascular conditions in children and adolescents.”
Why this matters:
Toxics and pollutants like the ones addressed in this statement are widespread, with exposure taking place through the environment, food, and even through the placenta and breastmilk. The AHA emphasizes the need to find strategies for reducing exposure, and calls on regulators, industry, and public health officials to work together in taking action to protect children.
Related EHN coverage:
- New study links microplastics to a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and death
- ER visits for heart problems plummeted after Pittsburgh coal processor shut down
More resources: The American Heart Association
- Toward heart-healthy and sustainable cities: a policy statement from the American Heart Association
- Social, environmental factors may raise risk of developing heart disease and stroke
Zachariah, Justin et al. for Circulation. Apr. 15, 2024.
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