Air pollution as stroke risk in MENA region

Air pollution is a significant problem in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), several cities in the MENA region have some of the highest levels of particulate matter (PM) in the world, with PM2.5 levels that are often more than 10 times the WHO guideline limit. This high level of PM is primarily caused by dust storms, industrial activities, and vehicular emissions. In addition, the region also experiences high levels of ozone pollution, which is mostly driven by the high temperatures and strong sunlight in the region. The WHO has reported that, in the MENA region, air pollution causes around 4.2 million premature deaths each year, with over 90% of people living in the region exposed to air pollution that exceeds the WHO guideline limits. The MENA region has highest premature death rate due to air pollution in the world, with Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Iran having the highest premature death rates in the region.

Air pollution has been linked to an increased risk of stroke in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Studies have shown that high levels of particulate matter and ozone in the air can lead to inflammation in the blood vessels and increase the likelihood of a stroke. Air pollution can also contribute to other risk factors for stroke, such as hypertension and diabetes. In addition, the population in the MENA region is particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution due to factors such as high levels of smoking and poor access to healthcare. It is important for governments and organizations in the MENA region to take action to reduce air pollution in order to protect the health of their citizens and reduce the risk of stroke