Short-Term exposure to traffic-related air pollution and cardiovascular indicators in young adults
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Abstract
Introduction: Traffic-Related Air Pollution (TRAP) is a major source of urban air pollution, with vehicular emissions releasing Particulate Matter (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀), Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and Carbon monoxide (CO) into the atmosphere . Short-term exposure to these pollutants has been linked to adverse cardiovascular effects, including increased blood pressure, reduced Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and arterial stiffness . However, evidence on the immediate cardiovascular responses of healthy young adults following roadside exposure remains limited. This study evaluated the acute cardiovascular effects of short-term exposure to TRAP.
Materials and methods: Sixty healthy volunteers aged 18-25 years participated in a 45-min roadside exposure study at a busy urban location. Ambient PM₂.₅, PM₁₀, NO₂, and CO concentrations were continuously monitored using validated portable air quality sensors and integrated monitoring techniques . Cardiovascular parameters, including systolic and diastolic blood pressure, HRV (RMSSD and SDNN) and arterial stiffness, were measured before and after exposure using standardized non-invasive instruments . Pre- and post-exposure differences were analyzed using paired t-tests and correlation analysis was performed to examine associations between pollutant concentrations and cardiovascular responses.
Results: PM₂.₅ concentrations ranged from 92–118 µg/m³ and NO₂ concentrations from 58–72 ppb, exceeding the World Health Organization air quality guideline values. Following exposure, systolic blood pressure increased by 4–6 mmHg, HRV indices decreased by 10–20% and arterial stiffness increased. PM₂.₅ concentrations were significantly associated with increased blood pressure and reduced HRV, consistent with previous studies.
Conclusion: Short-term exposure to traffic-related air pollution produced measurable cardiovascular changes in healthy young adults, including elevated blood pressure, reduced HRV, and increased arterial stiffness. These findings highlight the importance of strengthening urban air quality management and reducing roadside pollution exposure to minimize cardiovascular health risks.
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| Files | ||
| Issue | Vol 11 No 3 (2026): Summer 2026 | |
| Section | Original Research | |
| Keywords | ||
| Cardiovascular indicators; Young adults; Heart rate variability; Blood pressure; Particulate matter (PM₂.₅) | ||
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