Study reveals alarming impact of even brief exposure to air pollution on our brains Air pollution can impair cognitive functions like interpreting emotions, focusing on tasks and engaging appropriately in social situations.
"This study shows the importance of understanding the impacts of air pollution on cognitive function and the need to study the influences of different sources of pollution on brain health, particularly in vulnerable older members of society,” said professor Gordon McFiggans from the University of Manchester.
While the respiratory and cardiovascular impacts of air pollution are well documented, the study found that even short-term exposure to high levels of air pollution can impair cognitive functions needed for daily activities.
"Reduced productivity impacts economic growth, further highlighting the urgent need for stricter air quality regulations and public health measures to combat the harmful effects of pollution on brain health, particularly in highly polluted urban areas.".
"Our study provides compelling evidence that even short-term exposure to particulate matter can have immediate negative effects on brain functions essential for daily activities such as doing the weekly supermarket shop," said Dr Thomas Faherty, a researcher at the University of Birmingham who co-authored the study.
