According to a new large-scale study published in the journal PLOS Medicine, air pollution is directly linked to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
Scientists from Emory University analyzed data from more than 27 million people over an 18-year period and determined that environmental factors have a greater impact on brain health than previously thought.
Previously, scientists hypothesized that air pollution first caused conditions such as hypertension or depression, which only then led to brain damage. However, the new study has shown that polluted air affects the brain directly and triggers the development of Alzheimer’s independently of other chronic diseases.
The study highlighted one crucial finding: individuals who have suffered a stroke are more vulnerable to air pollution. In their case, the combination of environmental conditions and cardiovascular disease further increases the risk of Alzheimer’s.
According to the researchers’ conclusions, improving air quality could become one of the most effective means of preventing dementia. A clean environment is essential not only for lung and heart health but also for maintaining cognitive functions in the elderly and protecting against Alzheimer’s disease.
