The continuous release of inflammatory cytokines (such as IL-6, TNF-α, and CRP) damages vascular endothelial cells, promoting the formation and progression of atherosclerosis, thereby increasing the risk of stroke.[35,36] Free radicals and reactive oxygen species in air pollutants induce sustained oxidative stress, resulting in lipid peroxidation of cell membranes, protein denaturation, and DNA damage. This evidence concerns the gene TNF and atherosclerosis.