Environmental pollution poses a significant threat to public health worldwide, contributing to a range of adverse health outcomes, notably in cardiovascular and neurological systems. This Research Topic seeks to explore the intricate connections between various forms of pollution (air, water, soil, and noise) and their implications for cardio-neurological health. We aim to consolidate current knowledge, identify gaps in understanding, and propose novel preventive and therapeutic strategies to mitigate these risks.

Heart and brain diseases are heavily influenced by environmental factors, and understanding how pollutants affect these systems can pave the way for better clinical practices and health policies. Air pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been linked to increased incidence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and neurological disorders like stroke and cognitive decline. Additionally, exposure to heavy metals, pesticides, and other chemical pollutants through contaminated water or soil can exacerbate cardio-neurological conditions.

Furthermore, the interconnectedness of climate change and air pollution represents a critical focus point for this Research Topic. Climate change can amplify the effects of air pollution by altering weather patterns, leading to higher concentrations of pollutants, and extending the duration of exposure. Understanding how climate change influences pollution levels and the resulting cardio-neurological impacts is crucial for shaping effective public health strategies.

In this Research Topic, we invite submissions that focus on:
- Epidemiological Studies: Investigations into the prevalence and correlation between pollution exposure and cardio-neurological outcomes in diverse populations.
- Pathophysiological Mechanisms: Studies exploring the biological pathways by which pollution, possibly exacerbated by climate change, induces or exacerbates cardiovascular and neurological pathology, including inflammation, oxidative stress, autonomic dysfunction, and epigenetic modifications.
- Clinical Outcomes: Research assessing the long-term health consequences of pollution exposure, including those influenced by climate variables, with a focus on morbidity and mortality related to heart and brain diseases.
- Preventive Measures and Interventions: Innovative approaches to mitigate the effects of pollution on cardio-neurological health, including policy-based interventions, public health strategies, potential pharmacological or lifestyle modifications, and those addressing climate influences.
- Technological Advances: Development and application of new technologies for monitoring pollution exposure and its climate-change-related impacts on health, such as wearable devices, remote sensing, and advanced biomarker detection methods.
- Case Reports and Reviews: Detailed case reports of pollution-related cardio-neurological incidents and comprehensive reviews summarizing the current state of research, including the effects of climate change, and future directions.

The overall aim of this Research Topic is to enhance the understanding of the cardio-neurological impacts of pollution, particularly in the context of climate change, and to foster interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and policymakers. By bringing together high-quality research from various fields, we strive to inform public health initiatives and ultimately reduce the health burden associated with environmental pollution.

Dr. Jacques Reis is the founder and shareholder of SEFIR SAS, involved in environmental issues. Dr. Serefnur Ozturk declares no competing interests with regard to the Research Topic subject.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Pollution and Its Cardio-Neurological Implications: Pathophysiology, Clinical Outcomes, and Interventions