A study released by scientists on Thursday has revealed that people are more likely to suffer a heart attack because of air pollution when compared to a dangerous drug like cocaine. Apart from that, the risk has been found to be just as high as alcohol, coffee and physical stress.

It was also reported by scientists that various things like sex, respiratory infections and cannabis use can also result in a heart attack. However, the biggest reason behind heart attacks was widespread pollution, which was more prevalent in heavy traffic.

The research has already appeared in the journal known as the Lancet. It has been pointed out by experts that people should think of air pollution in a more serious manner than before as it did pose a serious risk to the cardiovascular health of people.

Talking about the study, lead author and faculty member of the Hasselt University in Belgium, Tim Nawrot, said that he wished that the conclusion of his study will cause doctors to think about the health hazards posed by high pollution levels. He added that doctors always take personal traits of a person into account when calculating their risk to cardiac diseases. However, this research will allow them to have a broader perspective regarding the chances of a person suffering a heart attack.

It needs to be kept in mind that the World Health organization (WHO), looks at air pollution as the cause behind 2 million premature deaths annually.