Short-term association between ambient air pollution and heart rate variability: results from the population-based KORA S4 and FF4 studies

Short-term exposure to PM_2.5 and NO₂ impacts cardiac autonomic function, with varying effects across study waves due to aging, smoking, medication, and lower pollution levels. Even at low ambient concentrations, these exposures impaired autonomic function via inflammation and oxidative stress, underscoring the importance of stringent air quality standards and lifestyle interventions in reducing cardiovascular risk.