March 22, 2023

Source: The Hill

Excerpt:

Long-term exposure to particle pollution may be associated with higher blood pressure in teens, a survey of London-based adolescents has found. 

While all age groups showed increased blood pressure in response to fine particle (PM 2.5) pollution, the effects were particularly strong in teenage girls, according to the study, published on Wednesday in PLoS ONE.  

Pollution from PM 2.5 — particles whose diameter is 2.5 microns or less — typically comes from car exhaust fumes, building materials and industry. 

The authors focused on the 11-16-year-old age group, which they described as a particularly important phase of growth and development. Negative effects on organs during this stage can lead to lifelong complications, they warned. 

Read more: Scientists link pollution to high blood pressure in teens