Taiwanese Study Shows Air Pollution’s Impact on Brain Health

(MENAFN) A recent study from Taiwan suggests that air pollution might negatively affect brain health in older adults.

Research conducted by National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University discovered that air pollution could activate the immune system through the sense of smell, leading to inflammation, as reported by a news agency in Taipei.

This inflammation might harm the blood-brain barrier, which could result in damage to the brain's blood vessels and, in turn, impact neurological well-being.

The researchers used models to estimate air pollution levels over a 10-year period and examined 412 adults aged 60 and older, living in both rural and urban settings.

Cognitive assessments as well as MRI scans were performed to observe changes in the structure of their brains.

The MRI scans revealed alterations in areas of the brain linked to attention and memory, particularly when the concentrations of pollutants were reduced.

Yi-Fang Chuang, an associate professor at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University Public Health Institute, emphasized that air pollution is a significant risk factor for cognitive decline.

She also noted that the study provides valuable insights into the connection between air pollution and brain health in the elderly.

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