Association between PM10 exposure and risk of myocardial infarction in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundAir pollution has several negative health effects. Particulate matter (PM) is a pollutant that is often linked to health adversities. PM2.5 (PM with an aerodynamic diameter of [≤]2.5m) exposure has been associated with negative cardiovascular (CV) outcomes. However, the impact of PM10 (PM with an aerodynamic diameter of [≤]10m) exposure is often overlooked due to its limited ability to pass the alveolar barrier. This study aims to assess the association between PM10 exposure and risk of myocardial infarction (MI) amongst adults ([≥]18 years of age) as this has been poorly studied. MethodsThe study protocol was published on PROSPERO (CRD42023409796) on March 31, 2023. Literature searches were conducted on 4 databases (OVID Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science) for studies looking at associations between PM and MI. English studies from all time periods were assessed. Studies selected for review were time-series, case-crossover, and cohort studies which investigated the risk of MI as an outcome upon PM10 exposure. The quality of evidence was assessed using Cochranes GRADE approach. Data for different risk outcomes (risk ratio (RR), odds ratio (OR), hazard ratio (HR)) and 3 lags was meta-analyzed using an inverse variance statistical analysis using a random effects model. The pooled effect sizes and the 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported in forest plots. ResultsAmong the 1,099 studies identified, 41 were included for review and 23 were deemed eligible for meta-analysis. Our analysis revealed that there is an increased risk (OR=1.01; 95% CI:1.00 - 1.02) of MI with a 10 g/m3 increase in PM10 after a lag 0 and lag 1 delay. ConclusionsOur findings indicate that PM10 exposure is associated with an increased risk of MI. This can aid in informing environmental policy-making, personal-level preventative measures, and global public health action.