Blacks often have higher exposure to air pollution than whites, which may partially explain their higher risk heart disease and death compared to whites, according to new research in Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, an American Heart Association journal. Exposure to air pollution is associated with elevated blood sugar levels, poorly functioning blood vessels, heart disease events and death. Previous studies showed chronic exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) — a component of air pollution emitted from vehicles, factories, power plants, fires and second-hand smoke — is associated with increased cardiovascular risk and death. Data also indicates that minorities are more likely to live in areas close to pollution sources, including heavy roadway traffic areas.
— source American Heart Association | Mar 15, 2018