"Traffic Jams and Air Pollution Linked to Rising Blood Pressure Risks"
A study by the University of Washington has found that exposure to unfiltered air during rush hour traffic can significantly increase blood pressure, with effects lasting up to 24 hours, similar to the impact of a high-sodium diet. The research highlights the cardiovascular risks associated with traffic-related air pollution, particularly ultrafine particles, which are a major concern for public health experts. The study, which isolated the effects of air pollution from other factors like stress and noise, suggests that even low levels of pollution can have a substantial impact on blood pressure, pointing to the need for further research on the health implications of ultrafine particles.