New research shows a strong link between diabetes rates and exposure to pollution. The research published in the latest Diabetes Care Journal shows a link even in areas where pollution is below the level accepted by the Environmental Protection Agency. Scientists found that people living in areas where air quality levels were near or below the acceptable safety limits had more than 20 percent higher rates of diabetes than people exposed to fewer pollutants. The study looked at pollution called fine particulate matter which is particles and liquid droplets in the air that are less than the width of a strand of hair. The soot is often the result of auto exhaust and industrial smoke. The study does not prove air pollution contributes to diabetes risk but it is the first large scale, national study to suggest there is a link. The study did account for factors that could predispose a person to diabetes such as obesity and ethnicity.