Lead, “Forever Chemicals,” and Pesticides: How They Affect Your Heart and How to Reduce Exposure

When we think about toxic chemicals and pollution, cancer or neurological issues often come to mind. However, these hazardous substances also play a role in the leading cause of death: cardiovascular disease.

“Recognizing that chemical pollutants can contribute to heart disease is a recent development, but it’s very real,” says Dr. Philip Landrigan, an adjunct professor of environmental health at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health. He explains that the risk from environmental pollution has often been overshadowed by other classic heart disease risk factors.

“Cardiologists have made great strides in identifying and addressing these risks. Heart disease deaths are much lower now than in the 1950s. But with fewer people smoking and better control of cholesterol and blood pressure, environmental exposures are getting more attention,” he says.

Credit:Inna Dodor

Pollution Sources

Chemical pollutants include toxins in the air, water, and soil. Among these, air pollution is the biggest threat to heart health, according to Dr. Landrigan. Other concerning contaminants include heavy metals like lead, perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and pesticides, as noted in an article from Circulation Research.

Where are these substances found, and how might they harm the heart?

Lead:

• Sources: People born before the mid-1970s were exposed to lead from car exhaust. Lead paint in homes built before 1978 and lead pipes in homes built before 1986 can contaminate drinking water. Hobbies like oil painting and stained glass making can also expose people to lead.

• Health Impact: The body gets rid of some lead through urine, but some stays in bones for decades. As bones remodel, lead can re-enter the bloodstream, increasing heart disease by damaging the kidneys and raising blood pressure.

PFAS (Forever Chemicals):

• Sources: PFAS are used in food packaging, aerospace, automotive industries, and more. They often end up drinking water and food.

• Health Impact: High levels of PFAS in the blood are linked to higher LDL cholesterol and plaque buildup in arteries.

Pesticides:

• Sources: Agricultural and chemical industry workers are most at risk, but people in rural areas and those using pesticides at home can also be exposed. Pesticide residues can be found in food.

• Health Impact: Pesticides can contribute to heart disease.

What you can do:

1. Check your drinking water: Test your tap water for contaminants like lead and PFAS. Use water filters if needed. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers comprehensive instructions. 

2. Choose PFAS-free products: Look for labels that say “PFAS-free” and avoid products with “perfluoro” or “fluoro” in the ingredients.

3. Avoid pesticides: Use non-chemical methods to manage pests and consider buying organic food.