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Abstract
Several studies have demonstrated that exposure to particulate matter (PM) of different
size fractions is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
In this review, we have taken into consideration the possible correlation between
the "short term" and "long term" effects of PM exposure and the onset of CVDs as well
as the possible molecular mechanisms by which PM elicits the development of these
events. Particularly, it is here underlined that these adverse health effects depend
not only on the level of PM concentration in the air but also on its particular internal
composition. Furthermore, we have also synthesized the findings gleaned from those
few studies indicating that PM produced by tobacco smoke can give rise to cardiovascular
injury.