The Impact of Neighborhood on Heart Attacks.

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that exposure to fine particle air pollution, produced by fuel-burning vehicles, smokestacks, and fires, increases the risk of heart attack and heart disease. Patients exposed to at least 12 micrograms of soot per cubic meter of air were 10% more likely to have a heart attack and 16% more likely to die of heart disease. The EPA recently proposed changing the guideline to between nine and 10 micrograms per cubic meter, which would save up to 4,200 lives per year and create billions of dollars worth of health benefits. To reduce daily exposure, individuals can switch to clean, eco-friendly electric appliances and vehicles and check local air quality at AirNow.gov.