The relationship between short-term exposure to gaseous air pollutants and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in the elderly population in Vancouver, British Columbia

Abstract

The present study investigated the association between gaseous air pollutants and mortality and morbidity due to specific cardiovascular conditions in the elderly population in Vancouver, British Columbia. Time-series analysis was utilized to evaluate the daily levels of carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulphur dioxide (SO2), and ozone (O3) in relation to cardiovascular hospital admissions and deaths between January 1985 and March 1999. Results showed significant associations between CO and ischemic heart disease and heart failure admissions, NO 2 and all cardiovascular hospitalizations and stroke deaths and between SO2 and heart failure hospital admissions. Vancouver air pollutant levels were well below the Canadian National Ambient Air Quality Objectives maximum acceptable levels. However the results of this study showed a negative influence on the population's health suggesting that a re-evaluation of these standards may be necessary.