New York City Air Pollution Makes Strokes More Likely

A recent study shows that higher levels of small-particle air pollution can increase a person’s stroke risk due to the narrowing of an artery in the neck.

Small-particle air pollution can come in the form of car exhaust. The study, which analyzed approximately 300,000 people in the New York metropolitan area, showed that those who live in more polluted areas were almost 25 percent more likely to have a narrowing of the carotid artery.

“This study shows for the first time a relationship between carotid stenosis (narrowing) and pollution,” said Paul Wright, MD, chairman of neurology at LIJ Medical Center in New Hyde Park and North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset.

“Carotid stenosis, or narrowing of the vessel, has been established as a significant risk factor for stroke… This study makes us aware of additional unanticipated consequences of particulate air pollution,” he said. “This is another risk factor that we may have to consider and discuss with our patients. Further investigation needs to be done in order to see the long term consequences of high particulate exposure. This study may help address the continued need for better air quality.”