Ozone pollution tied to cardiovascular woes

Exposure to ozone, a powerful greenhouse gas and a widespread air pollutant in many major cities, may cause cardiovascular disease such as high blood pressure and lead to heart attacks and strokes, according to a new study of Chinese adults.

Ozone is a pollutant formed by a chemical reaction when sunlight interacts with nitrogen oxides and other organic compounds generated by coal-burning, vehicle exhaust and some natural sources. It has long been associated with adverse health effects in children and adults.

"We know that ozone can damage the respiratory system, reduce lung function and cause asthma attacks," said study author Junfeng Zhang, from Duke and Duke Kunshan universities. "Here, we wanted to learn whether ozone affects other aspects of human health, specifically the cardiovascular system."