Air Pollution Short-term Cardiac Risk Index (PM2.5 Exposure) Calculator
Air Pollution Short-term Cardiac Risk Index (PM2.5 Exposure): Explanation and Clinical Context Short-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅, particles with diameter ≤2.5 μm) has been shown to increase the risk of acute cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction, arrhythmia, heart failure exacerbation, and sudden cardiac death. Epidemiological studies demonstrate that even transient exposure to elevated PM₂.₅ concentrations can trigger systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and autonomic imbalance — all of which contribute to acute cardiovascular instability.
This calculator estimates the relative short-term cardiac risk associated with ambient PM₂.₅ exposure, adjusted for age and pre-existing cardiovascular disease. The algorithm is based on pooled meta-analytic risk coefficients (β ≈ 0.012 per 10 μg/m³ PM₂.₅ increase), modified by vulnerability factors such as older age and underlying heart disease. The “Air Pollution Cardiac Risk Index” expresses the excess percentage risk relative to WHO-recommended baseline (10 μg/m³).
Clinically, this tool may help in public health advisories, risk communication, and patient counseling — particularly for individuals with high cardiovascular risk living in urban or industrial regions. However, it should not replace individualized clinical assessment or exposure monitoring. Instead, it complements preventive strategies such as indoor air filtration, avoidance of outdoor activity during pollution peaks, and adherence to cardioprotective therapies.
Reference:
Bell ML, Ebisu K, Peng RD, et al. Hospital Admissions and Chemical Composition of Fine Particle Air Pollution. Circulation. 2008;117(26):3013–3021.
Chen J, Hoek G. Long-term exposure to PM2.5, NO2, ozone and mortality: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ. 2020;370:m2934.
World Health Organization. Air quality guidelines: Global update 2021. Geneva: WHO Press; 2021.