Avoiding exposure to air pollution not only safeguards your lungs but also shields your brain, according to a McMaster University expert. Russell de Souza, a professor in the university’s Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, revealed that prolonged exposure to two common air pollutants was linked to detectable differences in brain health.
Published on May 13 in the journal Stroke, the study conducted by de Souza’s team analyzed how exposure to prevalent air pollutants impacted the cognitive abilities of approximately 7,000 Canadians. Participants, averaging 57 years old and hailing from various Canadian provinces, were assessed for their air pollution exposure in the five years leading up to the research.
The study focused on two pollutants: fine particulate matter, commonly found in sources like wildfire smoke and vehicle emissions, and nitrogen dioxide, a gas present in vehicle exhaust. Cognitive health was evaluated using the Montréal Cognitive Assessment and the Digit Symbol Substitution Test, both measuring brain performance and efficiency.
Although the declines observed in brain test scores due to air pollution exposure were subtle, de Souza emphasized the importance of early detection to prevent further deterioration. Despite Canada’s overall success in maintaining clean air, de Souza highlighted the impact of climate-induced wildfires on air quality in recent years.
De Souza suggested that areas near airports, highways, and freight yards typically have higher air pollution levels, advising individuals to monitor daily air quality advisories to assess local risks. Health Canada recommends strategies to reduce indoor exposure to fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide, including proper ventilation and avoiding idling vehicles in enclosed spaces.
The study, part of the Canadian Alliance for Healthy Hearts and Minds, received funding from organizations like the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer and the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. De Souza’s team advocates for further research to explore the long-term effects of air pollution exposure on cognitive decline and the potential benefits of improving air quality on brain health.
