For people living in urban environments, especially in subtropical countries like Taiwan, seasonal variations have a significant impact on cardiovascular health. Currently, the entire human population is facing the effects of extreme climate change on the human body. In this context, Dr. Da-Chen Su (Director of the Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine at National Taiwan University Hospital) and Dr. Chung-Ming Tsao (Associate Researcher at the Experimental Forest Management Office of the College of Bioresources and Agriculture at National Taiwan University) have conducted research on the seasonal changes in urban climate temperatures, relative humidity, and PM2.5 air pollution’s impact on cardiovascular health.
Their findings reveal that environmental temperature and humidity significantly affect multiple cardiovascular physiological indicators. Seasonal effects indicate that winter is a season associated with increased cardiovascular burdens and a higher incidence of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, environmental fine particulate matter (PM2.5) air pollution also has a notable impact on blood pressure, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular complications for urban commuters. This research has been published in the journal Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety.
For the complete report, please visit the National Taiwan University Hospital News Section