Alzheimer's disease starts in childhood in polluted Mexico City (2020)
21 hours ago
- #Alzheimer's disease
- #air pollution
- #neurodegeneration
- Alzheimer's disease (AD) starts in childhood in polluted Metropolitan Mexico City (MMC).
- Exposure to PM2.5 and ozone above USEPA standards is linked to AD risk.
- MMC youth have lifetime exposure to high levels of PM2.5 and ozone.
- Autopsies of young residents (≤30 years) show early AD pathology (Htau and amyloid).
- Combustion-derived nanoparticles (CFDNPs) are found in the brains of all MMC residents.
- 66% of young urbanites have cognitive impairment, with brainstem dysfunction evident.
- Average age for dementia onset in MMC is 20.6 years.
- APOE4 carriers have a higher risk of suicide.
- PM2.5 and CFDNPs contribute to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration.
- A major health crisis is unfolding, affecting 25 million residents.
- Urgent need for air pollution control and neuroprotective interventions in early life.