Olympic Pollution Raises Heart Attack Risk

August 08th, 2008 | Category: General Health

If clots migrate into the lungs and cause pulmonary embolism, that can kill you,” warned Gokhan Mutlu, MD, an assistant professor of medicine.

The researchers recommend that men by the age of forty take daily aspirin to prevent their blood from becoming too thick. They additionally propose staying indoors during peak traffic times, and exercising your legs frequently during the flight home.

The only pollution hazard for those watching the Olympics on television appears to be a slight green tinge.

To read more about the study, see that from ScienceDaily. To read more about the Summer Olympics, see that from The Official Website of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.

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Simply Breathtaking…

What does it mean when Chinese officials say the pollution in Beijing during the Olympics will be mild? It probably depends on who you are. If you are a resident of Beijing you may have reason to believe it. The steps the Chinese officials are taking, like restricting car traffic, may actually reduce the pollution to a level that allows more breathing and less wheezing. But, whether you’re a

traveler to the fair Olympic city, you may feel like you landed in Los Angeles on the worst smog day in a decade.

Let the wheezing start.

Researchers at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine warn of potential serious health complications for those traveling to Beijing. The level of pollution is far higher than travelers from the United States and other developed nations are accustomed to. As a aftermath, the added strain can put undoubtful individuals at an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Previous studies have shown that as microscopic air pollution particles invade the lungs they cause the blood to become thicker and stickier. This raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes within the 24-hour period following exposure. Those particularly at risk include individuals with cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, and those who smoke.

Getting safely out of Beijing doesn’t settle the issue. The lengthy plane ride home may be your most vulnerable point. “If you spend a few weeks in Beijing, your blood might become thicker and sticky and next when you fly 12 hours back to the U.S. that further increases your risk.

Original post by tim

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