Health Effects of Biodiesel Exhaust Exposure

Cardiovascular Effects of Exposure to 100% Biodiesel Exhaust in Man

Urban air pollution is a major contributor to greenhouse gases and has been shown to increase cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. This century has seen a rebirth of biofuel marketing and research, with biodiesel emerging as one of the strongest contenders within international markets. The pursuit of alternative renewable fuels is incredibly complex and has powered research in agriculture, biotechnology, production, transportation, feedstocks, ecology and biomass manufacturing. In spite of this, health effects have been an almost completely overlooked aspect. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether 100% biodiesel exhaust exposure in healthy volunteers leads to cardiovascular and inflammatory responses. Further investigations into the chemical composition of biodiesel exhaust will also be performed.

Inclusion Criteria:

Non-smoking, healthy male subjects. All subjects undergo a general health examination and are required to have normal clinical examination, ECG, blood tests and lung function.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Diabetes Mellitus
• Cardiovascular disease
• Asthma
• Respiratory infection within 2 weeks of the study
• Antioxidant- and/or vitamin supplementation within 1 week prior to, as well as during the course of the study. (incl vitamin C, Acetylcysteine)
• Smokers or regular snus usage