IMPACT OF AIR POLLUTION ON HEART RATE VARIABILITY (HRV) AND PULMONARY FUNCTION TESTS (PFT)

Abstract This review article explores the significant impact of air quality on cardiovascular and respiratory health, focusing on heart rate variability (HRV) and pulmonary function tests (PFTs). Various studies have been analyzed to elucidate both short-term and long-term effects of air pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM10. Key findings indicate that prolonged exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is associated with a significant decrease in HRV, highlighting chronic cardiovascular risks and autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Short-term exposure to elevated PM levels is linked to rapid declines in HRV, suggesting acute autonomic responses that exacerbate cardiovascular conditions. In terms of pulmonary function, studies reveal that both short-term and long-term exposure to air pollutants significantly impair lung function, as evidenced by declines in forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). Chronic exposure exacerbates conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and increases the risk of lung cancer mortality. This review underscores the urgent need for improved air quality standards and public health initiatives to mitigate the adverse health impacts of air pollution. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies with larger sample sizes, investigate underlying mechanisms, explore the impact of different pollutants, assess effectiveness of interventions, and ensure findings are generalizable across diverse populations.