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Pollution in Urban PICU Hypertension

Kompas.com - Living in areas of high urban air pollution could trigger a rise in blood pressure. Source pollution can come from motor vehicles, dust, or pollutants from power plants.

Researchers conducted a study of 5000 people on the occurrence of heart disease. The analysis was done by looking at the impact of air pollution on blood pressure between 2000 and 2003.

"Air pollution is not just a trigger of heart attacks and stroke events, but also influence the occurrence of the disease process," said Dr. Barbara Hoffman, lead researcher.

High blood pressure is a risk factor ateroklerosis or hardening of blood vessels that lead to heart disease and stroke. From previous studies have found that increased air pollution will increase blood pressure, but long-term impact is unknown.

High blood pressure is often referred to as the killer in disguise. The risk lies in long-term damage caused by the disease. High blood pressure is a major cause of stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, dementia, and died young.

There is no cure for high blood pressure, but this condition can be prevented and treated. Lifestyle changes and medication, if necessary, can help control blood pressure and maintain it at a safe level.