Pollution Haze Triggers Dementia and Forgetfulness
Journal Summary
- Journal Title: Long-term Effect of Fine Particulate Matter on Hospitalization with Dementia
- Publication Date: July 19, 2019
- Authors: Mihye Lee, Joel Schwartz, Yun Wang, Francesca Dominici, and Antonella Zanobetti
- Journal Source: Elsevier Environmental Pollution
Key Findings
Long-term exposure to high levels of PM2.5 can increase the risk of hospitalization due to dementia. The risk of dementia increases by about 5% for every 1 μg/m3 increase in annual PM2.5. The study also found a higher potential for dementia in urban areas compared to rural areas.
Methodology
Conducted from 2000 to 2013, this study utilized healthcare data (from the MediCare healthcare institution database covering inpatient claims for patients aged 65 and older in Florida, North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, South Carolina, and Mississippi), air pollution data (using air quality monitoring stations in the relevant cities), geographic data (in the form of zip codes and topographic conditions), and statistical methods to further understand the relationship between the existing research variables (age, gender, and location).
Why This Study Is Important
- Elderly Are Vulnerable to Pollution: Data already show that the elderly are among the groups most affected by air pollution. Moreover, this study found a 5% increased risk of dementia.
- Public Regulations Need to Consider Sensitive Groups: Understanding the impact of poor air quality on mental health, especially in the elderly, requires systematic and holistic policies to address this issue.
- Understanding the Relationship Between PM2.5 and Dementia: Provides valuable insights into the impact of air pollution on neurodegeneration. Specifically, it highlights the importance of air pollution mitigation for respiratory and cognitive health.
- Collaborative Efforts: Stakeholders and policymakers should actively engage in collaborations across various sectors, including government, industry, and society. The aim is to design and implement effective policies to reduce the impact of air pollution and improve public welfare.
For further information, please refer to the full research report or other articles in the field of environmental health and elderly neurology.
