Exploring the causal relationship between air pollution and aortic disease risk: a multivariable Mendelian randomization analysis

Understanding the impact of air pollution on aortic diseases such as aortic dissection (AD) and aortic aneurysm (AA) is crucial given their high morbidity and mortality rates. This study leverages Mendelian randomization (MR) to explore the causal relationships between various air pollutants and the risk of developing AD and AA. Utilizing genetic variants as instrumental variables from comprehensive genome-wide association studies (GWAS), we conducted both univariate and multivariable MR analyses. Our findings indicate a significant positive association between increased exposure to PM_2.5 and an elevated risk of AD. Conversely, other investigated relationships did not show significant causal effects. These results underscore the critical need for public health interventions and policies aimed at reducing exposure to air pollutants to prevent serious aortic conditions. The insights provided by this study have important implications for air quality management and public health strategies.