Study Reveals Alarming Link Between Water, Soil Pollution and Cardiovascular Disease

A groundbreaking study published in the journal Atherosclerosis has unveiled the profound impact of water and soil pollution on human health, with a particular focus on cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The research underscores the critical role of clean water and healthy soil in maintaining well-being, highlighting the devastating consequences of environmental degradation.

The study, conducted by an international team of researchers, reveals that soil degradation alone threatens the health of approximately 40% of the global population. Furthermore, in 2019, pollution-related illnesses led to nine million premature deaths and accounted for 268 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).

Key findings from the study include:

• Pollution and DALYs: Both air and soil pollution contribute significantly to DALYs, with soil pollution disproportionately affecting older individuals. Water pollution is a major driver of infant mortality.
• Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs): Over two-thirds of pollution-related diseases are NCDs, with CVDs accounting for 60% of this burden.
• Environmental vs. Genetic Factors: The study suggests that environmental factors like pollution may outweigh genetic predispositions in driving NCDs, exposing a critical gap in current health strategies.
• Sources of Soil Pollution: Soil contamination stems from various sources, including industrial activities, agriculture, waste mismanagement, and fossil fuel consumption, leading to the accumulation of harmful substances like heavy metals, pesticides, and micro/nanoplastics (MNPs).
• Cardiovascular Impacts: Exposure to pollutants, including heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium, as well as endocrine disruptors like bisphenol A and PFAS, increases the risk of hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and other CVDs. MNPs, an emerging contaminant, also contribute to oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and atherosclerosis.
• Ecodisruptive Causes: Climate change, overfertilization, deforestation, and poorly designed urban environments exacerbate pollution, leading to further health risks. Airborne dust, resulting from soil disturbance, also induces inflammation and cardiovascular damage.
• Mitigation Strategies: The study emphasizes the importance of mitigation strategies, including limiting exposure to pollutants through air and water purification, dietary interventions, and lifestyle changes. Medical interventions like chelation therapies can also be effective in removing heavy metals.
• Policy and Public Health Measures: Public health initiatives and policy measures, such as the European Commission’s Zero-Pollution Vision and the EU Soil Deal, are crucial for reducing pollution and restoring environmental health.

The research emphasizes that pollution is preventable and not an inevitable consequence of economic development, as evidenced by the successful pollution control measures implemented in high-income countries.

“This study underscores the urgent need for global action to address water and soil pollution,” said lead author, Professor Thomas Münzel. “The impact on cardiovascular health is profound, and we must prioritize environmental protection to safeguard human well-being.”

Journal reference:

Münzel T, Kuntic M, Lelieveld J, et al. The links between soil and water pollution and cardiovascular disease. Atherosclerosis, 2025, DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2025.119160, https://www.atherosclerosis-journal.com/article/S0021-9150(25)00057-7/fulltext

Disclaimer:

This news article is based on the provided research study and is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be considered medical advice. Readers should consult with qualified healthcare professionals for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to their health or treatment. The information presented here reflects the findings of the study and may not represent all available research or expert opinions on the subject. Also, please note that scientific research is always evolving, and future studies may provide new insights or revise current understandings.