The project will be conducted in Eastern Poland - the area characterized by unique natural features, large areas covered by forests, lack of factories, and relatively low industrialization. On the other hand, the region is also characterized by low socioeconomic status, in the cold season the residents' suboptimal heating choices are in result posing a major anthropogenic threat to air quality in the form of low emissions. The vast majority of studies on air pollution were conducted in highly polluted areas, in which patients are exposed to moderate and extreme concentrations of pollutants. Taking into consideration the scarce number of surveys from areas with a low level of pollution the investigators intend to analyze the relationship between air pollution and cardiovascular and renal outcomes in Eastern Poland. The examination of the impact of so-called Polish smog on mortality and morbidity in the study area is not without significance. It would be the first major study of the impact of this type of pollution on human health.~In the subsequent part of the study, we will evaluate the effects of Polish smog in the entire country.~In light of extant body of literature, the following will be considered as the public health indicators: acute coronary syndromes, episodes of atrial fibrillation, kidney disease hospitalizations or emergency room visits, cardiovascular and renal mortality.
The effects of air pollution on the frequency of hospital admissions and mortality due to acute coronary syndromes, atrial fibrillation, and renal disfunction are noted also in areas perceived as pollution-free (due to the lack of large industry). The aim of the project is to assess the impact of air pollution in Eastern Poland on regional public health.