Did you know that environmental hazards can contribute to heart disease and stroke? This surprising observation comes from a new factsheet "Environmental Hazards Weigh Heavy on the Heart" released by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA developed the factsheet as part of its Aging Initiative, a campaign to inform older Americans and their caregivers about the harmful effects elders face from such environmental factors as indoor and outdoor air pollution, lead and arsenic in drinking water, and extreme heat.

The factsheet not only suggests ways older adults can minimize their exposure to air and water pollutants, but also "encourages local governments to take steps to reduce hazards and publicize precautions for older adults," notes Kathy Sykes, senior advisor for the Aging Initiative at the EPA Office of Children's Health Protection in Washington, D.C. "For example, they can promote smoke-free policies in public places; adopt a health watch warning system; and publicize and encourage compliance with the air quality forecasts."

In the United States, heart disease is the leading cause of death and stroke is the third most frequent cause of death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Both cost the nation hundreds of billions of dollars each year in healthcare expenditures. Becoming aware of environmental hazards -- secondhand cigarette smoke, particle pollutants, fumes from household products, pesticide poisonings -- can help older adults improve their health and quality of life -- and reduce healthcare expenses.

The four-page document is available in eight different languages and in low-vision and low-literacy versions; visit the EPA Aging Initiative website to download free PDFs of the factsheet.

Illustration: Courtesy Environmental Protection Agency

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