Air pollution increases the risk of Alzheimer's

A large-scale study conducted by Cambridge University (UK) on nearly 30 million people has just confirmed that air pollution not only harms the lungs but also silently destroys the brain, significantly increasing the risk of dementia.

A review of 51 studies worldwide found that three common pollutants, PM2.5, NO₂ (nitrogen dioxide) and soot, were all strongly associated with dementia risk.

Particularly dangerous is PM2.5 fine dust, very small particles generated mainly from traffic emissions, factories and construction activities, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and even the brain, causing inflammation and nerve damage.

Specifically, for every 10 µg/m³ increase in PM2.5 concentration, the risk of dementia increases by 17%. For NO₂, the risk increases by 3% for every 10 µg/m³. For soot alone, for every 1 µg/m³ increase, the risk of dementia increases by 13%.

According to scientists , air pollution increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease and is especially strong in dementia due to impaired blood vessels in the brain. They also point out that poor, low-income communities are often exposed to air pollution, so stricter and more equitable pollution control policies are needed.

"Reducing air pollution not only protects people's health but also brings great social and economic benefits, reducing the burden on patients, families and the health system," emphasized Dr. Haneen Khreis, head of the research team.

The research team also called on countries to quickly introduce effective policies, especially in urban planning, transportation and environmental control, to protect people's brain health from the dangers of air pollution.