Highway proximity associations with blood markers of inflammation: Evidence for a role for IL-1β

摘要

Cardiovascular disease is associated with proximity to major roadways and highways. We analyzed blood samples from 20 near highway and 20 urban background residents for cytokines and other biomarkers. Near highway participants had significantly lower SES and significantly higher occupational vehicle exhaust exposure and higher LDL levels (p = 0.046). Controlling for exposure to vehicle exhaust on-the-job, IL-6 was borderline significantly higher (p = 0.07) in near highway participants. In logistic regression analyses IL-1β was elevated near highway (OR = 3.27; p = 0.09). It is interesting that we found elevations in IL-1β, a key cytokine linked to inflammation from particulate matter. More research is needed with larger sample sizes to assess the possible role of IL-1β.