Ozone could cause heart issues

Hyderabad: The ozone layer is known to protect the earth from ultraviolet rays. However, when it’s concentration in the troposphere near us from which living organisms breathe, it can be hazardous. A new research in Beijing indicates that it can cause serious cardiovascular diseases amongst people. The study which had a pilot on 89 individuals measured their statistics like blood pressure, platelet count and other indicators when indoors and outdoors for one year found that these figures where more in ozone exposure.

Ozone is a highly polluting gas when found at the lower atmospheric levels, say experts. It is formed when nitroxides mix with volatile organic compou-nds and can be extremely difficult to contain. While the city is relatively better placed on ozone pollution levels, doctors don’t rule out danger. “We get many patients day in and day out with blood pressure and stroke condition with no apparent history. The only link the case history establishes is of pollution,” says Dr Sunil Kumar with Relief Hospital. He adds the Miyapur area has been recording high VOC levels going upto 300 in June.

In the city the ozone levels stand at 70-50 mg/cubic metre, which is in the safe category notified the Central Pollution Control Board with 100mg/cubic metre being the benchmark. “Drivers and people who encounter heavy traffic or stay closer to industrial areas are in the risk group,” says Dr Bharath Reddy a cardiologist with Apollo. He said that those in the risk group must never ignore the first signs like chest pain, profuse sweating, or severe stomach pain which could be a minor attack.