LONDON: Most people know air pollution can hurt our lungs and make it tough to breathe. But a new study has revealed that air pollution can be as bad or even worse for our heart.

Researchers in Europe have carried out the study and found that air pollution caused by fuel exhaust fumes makes the blood stickier which raises the chances of heart attacks or strokes, the 'Daily Mail' reported here.

"This study shows that when a person is exposed to relatively high levels of diesel exhaust for a short time, the blood is more likely to clot. This could lead to a blocked vessel resulting in heart attack or stroke," lead researcher Dr Andrew Lucking of the University of Edinburgh was quoted by the daily as saying.

In fact, Dr Lucking and his fellow researchers from Britain and Sweden came to the conclusion after examining the effects of diesel exhaust on a group of people.

The team measured the effects of diesel exhaust on their heart and blood vessel functions in surroundings which mimicked a busy street. Monitors showed inhalation of diesel exhaust caused a rise in clot formation of up to 25 per cent in them in the hours after exposure.

The researchers have also advised people to exercise away from traffic to cut the risk, especially if they have known heart conditions. The study, funded by the British Heart Foundation, have been reported in a medical journal in the United Kingdom.

So, if your jogging route takes you into traffic, just remap it to stay fit.