Impact of air pollution on postoperative outcomes following organ transplantation: Evidence from clinical investigations

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionAir pollution is a worldwide problem affecting human health via various body systems, resulting in numerous significant adverse events. Air pollutants, including particulate matter < or = 2.5 microns (PM2.5), particulate matter < or = 10 microns (PM10), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and traffic‐related air pollution (TRAP), have demonstrated the negative effects on human health (e.g., increased cerebrovascular, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases, malignancy, and mortality). Organ transplant patients, who are taking immunosuppressive agents, are especially vulnerable to the adverse effects of air pollutants. The evidence from clinical investigation has shown that exposure to air pollution after organ transplantation is associated with organ rejection, cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, infection‐related mortality, and vitamin D deficiency.Objectives and methodThis review aims to summarize and discuss the association of exposure to air pollutants and serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D level and outcomes after transplantation. Controversial findings are also included and discussed.ConclusionAll of the findings suggest that air pollution results in a hazardous environment, which not only impacts human health worldwide but also affects post‐transplant outcomes.