Heart attacks are one of the leading causes of death around the world.

While some of the contributing factors, such as smoking, lack of exercise and unhealthy diets, are well known, there are several surprising causes that may be less commonly understood. Here are the top seven surprising causes of heart attacks:.

1. Air Pollution

Air pollution can be a significant risk factor for heart attacks. Inhaling fine particulate matter can lead to inflammation, which can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease.

According to one study, long-term exposure to air pollution can increase the risk of heart attack by up to 20 percent.

2. Long Working Hours

Working long hours, especially over a long period, can increase the risk of heart attack.

One study found that people who worked more than 55 hours per week were 33 percent more likely to have a heart attack than those who worked between 35 and 40 hours per week. Researchers believe that the stress associated with long working hours can lead to an increased risk of high blood pressure and other heart-related conditions.

3. Sudden Emotional Stress

Sudden emotional stress, such as the death of a loved one or a relationship breakdown, can trigger heart attacks in people who are otherwise healthy.

This is thought to be due to the sudden release of stress hormones, which can cause inflammation and damage to the blood vessels.

4. Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes people to stop breathing for short periods during sleep. This can lead to low levels of oxygen in the blood, which can increase the risk of hypertension, stroke and heart disease.

People with sleep apnea are also more likely to have other risk factors for heart disease, such as overweight or obesity and high blood pressure.

5. Oral Health

Poor oral health, such as gum disease, can increase the risk of heart attacks.

This may be because the bacteria that cause gum disease can infect the bloodstream and trigger inflammation throughout the body, including in the blood vessels around the heart. One study found that people with moderate to severe gum disease had a 28 percent increased risk of heart disease.

6. Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining cardiovascular health. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and other risk factors for heart disease.

One study found that people with the lowest levels of vitamin D were 81 percent more likely to have a heart attack than those with the highest levels.

7. Traffic Jams

Traffic jams may be more than just an annoyance – they can also increase the risk of heart attack.

One study found that the risk of heart attack increased by 7.4 percent for every 10 micrograms per cubic meter increase in particulate matter levels during traffic. This may be due to the stress and frustration associated with being stuck in traffic, as well as the pollution from vehicles.

Conclusion

While some of these causes of heart attacks may be surprising, it is important to understand the risks associated with these factors.

By being aware of the risks and taking steps to reduce them, such as reducing exposure to air pollution, maintaining good oral health, and addressing sleep apnea, you can help protect your heart health.