Air Pollution

ENGLISH / MALTESE

What is air pollution?

  • Air pollution refers to particles and gases in the air which are harmful to you when breathed inwards

  • Examples include carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter (a combination of solid and liquid particles such as dust and soot). 

  • Burning of fossil fuels is the main source of air pollution. These fuels are burned in cars and factories 

Air Pollution in Malta

Air pollution in Malta contributes substantially to the overall mortality rate.      

“More than 500 people die prematurely on an annual basis. Malta’s air pollution is more than twice as high as the European average.”

How does air pollution damage my heart?

  • Air pollution damages your blood vessels, causing them to become narrower. This restricts      blood flow and increases your blood pressure

  • Permanent damage to your heart may lead to heart failure

  • Normal heart electrical activity is disturbed

  • Blood becomes thicker

  • This damage can lead to a higher risk of a heart attack or stroke

  • Air pollution leads to other medical issues including worsening of asthma and cancer

How can I remain healthy and avoid the consequences of air pollution? 

  • If you suffer from heart disease, it is advisable to avoid air pollution as much as possible.

  • Avoid staying in roads with busy traffic, or industrial areas with factories. 

  • Try performing errands at calmer times during the day; not during ‘rush’ hour. 


Apart from these points, it is always advisable to maintain a healthy lifestyle by following these important points:

  1. Maintain a healthy diet

  2. Stop smoking- Local smoking cessation services are available, and you can always ask your family doctor for advice

  3. Control blood sugar levels (in the case of diabetic patients)

  4. Reduce alcohol consumption 

  5. Remain physically active - Taking the stairs instead of the lift, walking to local shops instead of taking the car. It is recommended to do around 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week

  6. Diagnose and control your high blood pressure

  7. Control cholesterol levels

  8. Maintain a healthy weight

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Try performing errands at calmer times during the day; not during ‘rush’ hour. 


How can I help reduce air pollution?

  • Carpooling or taking the bus instead of using a car on your own

  • Choose greener means of transport, such as walking, cycling or buying electric vehicles (electric scooters, electric motorcycles and electric cars) 

  • Electric vehicles are more favourable as they are rechargeable; such energy may be provided by renewable energy, including sources like solar, wind or hydro energy

Take-Home Messages

Air pollution refers to harmful gases and small particles in the air

Cars and factories are major sources of air pollution

Air pollution is harmful to your heart and general health

Avoid air pollution when possible and maintain a healthy lifestyle

HELP AND SUPPORT

If you have any questions regarding our article, feel free to contact us on info@maltaheartfoundation.org or on our Facebook page.

This article was authored by Dr. Martina Cilia and edited by Dr. Neil Grech, in collaboration with the Malta Heart Foundation and Maltese Cardiac Society.

Risk FactorsMHF Admin - Matthew Farrugia