Air pollution has been directly linked to stroke for the first time, according to an “unprecedented” study by the National Institute for Stroke and Applied Neurosciences at Auckland University of Technology. Ambient air pollution, including emissions from industry and vehicles, accounted for 17% of the burden of stroke. The figure was regarded as “alarming” by scientists as they believe emission levels have previously been underestimated. at least 40,000 people annually worldwide are left with disabilities, including vision and speech impairment or loss and paralysis, as a result of stroke. Researcher Valery Feigin said: “We did not expect the effect would be of this magnitude”.
Air pollution has been directly linked to stroke for the first time, according to an “unprecedented” study by the National Institute for Stroke and Applied Neurosciences at Auckland University of Technology. Ambient air pollution, including emissions from industry and vehicles, accounted for 17% of the burden of stroke. The figure was regarded as “alarming” by scientists as they believe emission levels have previously been underestimated. Five million people annually worldwide are left with disabilities, including vision and speech impairment or loss and paralysis, as a result of stroke. Researcher Valery Feigin said: “We did not expect the effect would be of this magnitude”.