The Link Between Air Pollution and Alzheimer's Is Now Clearer
6 days ago
- #Alzheimer's disease
- #air pollution
- #health research
- Tiny air pollution particles (PM2.5) may increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
- The study suggests PM2.5 affects the brain directly, not just through related conditions like high blood pressure or depression.
- Researchers analyzed health records of 27.8 million US citizens over 18 years, finding a strong link between air pollution and Alzheimer's risk.
- The study is observational and doesn't prove causation but highlights a significant association.
- Stroke victims showed a slightly higher risk of Alzheimer's, suggesting strokes may make the brain more vulnerable to pollution.
- Potential mechanisms include direct brain tissue damage, increased inflammation, and protein buildup linked to Alzheimer's.
- The findings emphasize the importance of reducing air pollution for overall health and dementia prevention.
- Healthy neighborhood environments are crucial for preventing diseases like dementia, especially in older populations.