Air pollution increases the risk of pulmonary embolism: a meta-analysis

Air pollution can lead to many cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, but the impact of air pollution on pulmonary embolism is still uncertain. We conducted a meta-analysis to assess the relationship between air pollution and pulmonary embolism.We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochran Library for citations on air pollutants (carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone and particulate matter) and pulmonary embolism. A total of nine citations met the inclusion criteria. There is no evidence of bias. CO, SO2, PM10 and PM2.5 had no significant effect on the occurrence of pulmonary embolism. NO2 and O3 can increase the risk of pulmonary embolism to a small extent.This meta-analysis suggests that some air pollutants are associated with an increased risk of pulmonary embolism.Reducing air pollution and improving air quality can effectively reduce the risk of pulmonary embolism.