Exposure to air pollution linked to quicker brain aging

Exposure to air pollution linked to quicker brain aging


Pollution in the air may do more than irritate our respiratory systems. Researchers at the University of Southern California have found a link between exposure to air pollution and accelerated aging of the brain.

The researchers discovered this link using data from a large health study. They analyzed data from 1,403 women without dementia. When the women were all 71 to 89 years old, they conducted MRI scans to measure their brain volume.

The researchers then compared the brain volume data to residential histories and air pollution data. Air pollution data was collected from monitoring sites that measured tiny bits of particulate matter called PM 2.5 that can easily penetrate the lungs. Their data showed that for each increase of PM 2.5, there was a decrease in white matter in the brain equal to one to two years of brain aging.

The study adjusted for variables in the participants such as age, physical activity, blood pressure, education level and socioeconomic status.

The lead author said this study sheds light on the negative effects of air pollution, which is usually thought to be limited to the circulatory system.

How can you keep your brain young? The American Lung Association offers practical tips on how to limit exposure to air pollution. First, get informed by checking your area’s air quality index by visiting AIRNow.gov. If you workout outdoors, try exercising in the morning when the ozone is low and pollution from traffic is light. In addition, when sitting in the car it’s best to set the fan on the recirculate mode; that way polluted air from outside isn’t blowing inside.

You should also make sure your air filters are replaced regularly. One more precaution to limit exposure is to avoid secondhand smoke. And if you do smoke, always smoke outdoors.

Related Episodes