GLASGOW’S council is being urged to start testing Scotland’s most polluted street for a deadly particle that is linked to heart attacks and stroke.

The British Heart Foundation say many people are still unaware of the health risks associated with exposure to air pollutants.

In Hope Street, the council tests for Nitrogen Dioxide, which is linked to lung damage.

However the, charity say the council’s tests should also include Particulate matter (PM), also known as particle pollution, which is a complex mixture of extremely small particles and liquid droplets that get into the air.

Once inhaled, these particles can affect the heart and lungs and cause serious health effects, particularly for those already affected by long-term conditions.

For every 5mg per cubic meter of PM, the chance of a heart attack and stroke is increased by 16%.

Tests are carried out in only three areas of the city, in Anderston, Parkhead and Dumbreck Road.

David McColgan, Policy & Public Affairs Manager British Heart Foundation Scotland said: “One of the frustrating things for us, is that people talk about air pollution and think, in how ever many years we are all going to be under water. The biggest risk is the health aspect.

“Around 2,500 people die a year and a contributory factor is air pollution. Around 80% of these are from a heart attack or stroke.

“We are looking into why some people test for some things and not others.

“Hope Street is the most polluted street in Scotland for Nitrogen Dioxide.

“In Hope Street the pollution monitor tests for Nitrogen Dioxide but the most deadly part is the particle matter that is emitted from exhausts.

“For every 5mg per cubic meter of PM, the chance of a heart attack and stroke is increased by 16%.

“For someone with heart failure, that’s a huge thing.

“People who live with an existing health condition are more at risk.

“The biggest emitter of PM is diesel engines.

“There is a social justice aspect to this. People who live in poorer areas are more likely to be affected by heart disease, they are more likely to suffer from air pollution and they are less likely to be contributing to the problem as fewer people have cars.”