Long-term exposure to traffic-related air pollution and cardiac events in four cohorts from Stockholm

Long-term exposure to traffic-related air pollution and cardiac events in four cohorts from Stockholm Background. Effects of long-term exposure to air pollution on cardiovascular outcomes have been studied extensively, but there are few prospective studies with individually assessed exposure to air pollution in relation to development of non-fatal and fatal cardiac events (CE). Furthermore, the role of timing of exposure has not been adequately investigated. Aim. To assess the risk of CE in relation to long-term exposure to air pollution, with particular focus on the influence by timing of exposure. Methods. Four cohorts enrolled 1992-2004 in Stockholm County were followed until 2009. Individual exposure to NOX and PM10 from local traffic was assessed with dispersion models and applied to the residential addresses during follow-up. Information on life style and other environmental exposures were obtained from questionnaires and clinical tests. Information on CE morbidity and mortality was retrieved from n...