(CNN) Short-term exposure to air pollution is linked to a higher risk of sudden heart problems, especially among older people, according to a study published Monday. The study, published in the journal The Lancet , indicates that even low levels of air pollution can increase the likelihood of cardiac arrest. They looked at data from emergency medical responses in Japan over a two-year period, as well as the country's records on air pollution involving particulate matter. Researchers point to an increase in air pollution in Australian cities after massive bushfires ravaged the country. A 30-year analysis of more than 600 cities in 24 countries found that increases in air pollution were linked to increases in related deaths

Source: CNN January 29, 2020 02:03 UTC