THE ROLE OF AIR POLLUTION IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES AND COMPREHENSIVE HYGIENIC RISK ASSESSMENT

Air pollution is recognized as one of the leading global environmental risk factors, contributing substantially to morbidity and premature mortality worldwide. A growing body of evidence indicates that exposure to ambient air pollutants—particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5), coarse particles (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and carbon monoxide (CO)—is strongly associated with the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases. These pollutants can penetrate deep into the respiratory system and enter the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and disturbances in autonomic regulation, all of which are key mechanisms in cardiovascular pathology. The objective of this study is to evaluate the role of air pollution in the development of cardiovascular diseases and to conduct a comprehensive hygienic risk assessment of population exposure. The study aims to integrate current scientific evidence on exposure pathways, biological effects, and epidemiological trends, while also assessing the magnitude of risk from a public health and hygiene perspective. The methodological approach is based on a combination of epidemiological data analysis, environmental monitoring reports, and an extensive review of recent scientific literature from international databases. Data on pollutant concentrations and population exposure levels are analyzed alongside reported incidences of cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension, ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Standard hygienic risk assessment frameworks are applied, including hazard identification, exposure assessment, dose–response evaluation, and risk characterization. The findings indicate a consistent and significant association between increased levels of air pollution and elevated risks of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter is particularly linked to a higher incidence of chronic cardiovascular conditions, while short-term exposure peaks are associated with acute cardiovascular events. The analysis also reveals that vulnerable populations, including the elderly and individuals with pre-existing conditions, are at greater risk. In conclusion, air pollution represents a critical modifiable risk factor in the development of cardiovascular diseases. The comprehensive hygienic risk assessment underscores the urgent need for stricter air quality standards, continuous environmental monitoring, and effective public health interventions aimed at reducing exposure. Addressing air pollution is essential not only for environmental protection but also for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and the improvement of population health outcomes.