Cardiovascular health
Module 6
WHO
©
Credits
Overview
Air pollution is a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease, the world’s leading cause of death number 1 killer, and a major contributor to the global burden of disease. Through this module, users will understand the mechanisms by which particulate matter impacts cardiovascular health, synergistic effects of climate change, and how practitioners can turn evidence into action through targeted interventions.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this module, you will:
- describe major air pollutants and their main sources, and explain their contribution to the global cardiovascular disease burden
- summarize epidemiological evidence linking air pollution exposure to cardiovascular diseases
- explain the key biological mechanisms through which air pollution contributes to cardiovascular disease
- describe how climate change can amplify cardiovascular risks from air pollution
- identify individuals and populations at higher risk of air pollution attributable cardiovascular disease
- communicate and apply evidence-based actions to reduce air pollution exposure and advocate for clean air and healthy hearts
Download Module 6 in PDF version
6 October 2026
Module 6: Cardiovascular health
Air pollution and health training toolkit for health workers (APHT)