Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Women Exposed to Biomass Fuel During Cooking

Abstract

Objective: To determine and compare cardiovascular risk markers among women using
biomass fuel and those using Low Pressure Gas (LPG) for cooking purpose.
Methods: Seventy two female subjects were recruited for this study. Thirty six women in group
1(using biomass fuel) and 36 in group 2(using LPG fuel) for cooking purpose. After taking
informed consent, blood pressure was measured. Air sampling was done at kitchen of both
groups for estimation of PM2.5 concentration. Blood sample was taken for estimation of Ischemia
modified albumin (IMA), lipid profile and highly sensitive C - reactive protein (hs-CRP). Data was
analysed by IBM SPSS version 23.p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Biomass fuel users have two to four time higher PM2.5 concentration in their kitchen (p-
value <0.005). These women have significantly higher Systolic and Diastolic blood pressure (p-
value < 0.005). Significantly higher levels of IMA, hs-CRP, Low Density Lipoprotein, Cholesterol,
Triglyceride level and lower High Density Lipoprotein (p-value <0.001) level were found in
biomass users when compared with LPG using women.
Conclusions: Biomass fuel exposure induces oxidative stress and systemic inflammatory disease thereby increasing the risk of development of atherosclerosis and CVD in exposed persons.