The relationship of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and total dietary antioxidant intake with metabolic biomarkers in the elderly living in Tehran city

Background: Exposure to particulate air pollutants is one of the major problems and crises in Tehran metropolis, Iran. Various studies have shown the effect of particulate matter of air contaminants as an increase in cardiovascular and oxidative stress. So, the purpose of this study was to examine the relationship of <2.5 micrometers and <10 micrometers microns particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and total dietary antioxidant intake with fasting blood glucose (FBS), serum lipids, and hypertension in the elderly living in Tehran. Materials and methods: This study was performed on 226 elderly people in 2015. Demographic data and frequency of food questionnaires were collected from qualified individuals. Total dietary antioxidant intake was calculated and biochemical tests (FBS and serum lipid measurement) were performed. Concentrations of air Particulate Matter were obtained from relevant organizations in Tehran province. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA test. Results: There was a significant difference in the mean systolic blood pressure between first and second tertile of PM2.5 (p=0.044) and PM10 (p=0.026). There was also a significant difference in diastolic blood pressure between the first and second tertile and also between the second and third tertile of PM10 (p=0.002). However, there was no significant relationship between particulate matter and dietary antioxidants with other metabolic biomarkers. Conclusion: The present study showed that exposure of elderly citizens with particulate matters less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter would increase their blood pressure.