Dirty air now linked to hospital admissions for mental health - study New research has identified a link between air pollution and an increased risk of hospital admissions for mental illnesses.
Sulphur dioxide had the strongest link with hospital admissions for respiratory disease, while nitrogen dioxide was associated with a higher number of hospital admissions for mental illness/behavioural disorders.
Now scientists from St Andrews University have found someone exposed to air pollution over a long period of time is more likely to be admitted to hospital for mental health and behavioural disorders.
The St Andrews team analysed data from Public Health Scotland for the prevalence and impact of four key air pollutants, which are associated with road traffic and heavy industry.
Cumulative exposure to two other pollutants, PM10 and PM2.5, was also associated with higher rates of hospital admissions for cardiovascular, respiratory, and infectious diseases.
