The contribution of PM 2.5 to cardiovascular disease in China

China is experiencing rapid urbanization and industrialization with correspondingly high levels of air pollution. Although the harm of PM 2.5 has been long reported, it is only quite recently that there is increasing concern in China for its possible adverse health effects on cardiovascular disease. We reviewed the epidemiologic evidence of potential health effects of PM 2.5 on cardiovascular disease reported from recent studies in China (2013 onwards). There is clear evidence for the contribution of PM 2.5 to cardiovascular outcomes, including mortality, ischemic heart disease, and stroke from studies based in various regions in China. This evidence adds to the global evidence that PM 2.5 contributes to adverse cardiovascular health risk and highlights the need for improved air quality in China.