BMJ
Editorials
Air pollution and cognition
BMJ 2018; 363 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.k4904 (Published 27 November 2018)
Cite this as: BMJ 2018;363:k4904
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Air Pollution and Defects in Brain Higher Function
Air pollution can affect the brain tissues directly or by cerebrovascular diseases. Thereby air pollution can lead to cognitive dysfunction and dementia.
The increased levels of particulates smaller than 10 μm (PM10), sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide are associated with cognitive dysfunction, based on short and long time exposures. It is more common in older people, particularly men.
The toxic substances in polluted air affect hippocampal tissues in the brain and their connections through low grade, mild chronic inflammation with higher levels of cytokines and TNF-alpha, resulting in alterations in neurotransmitter levels. Thereby it leads to slow learning, memory disturbance and other defects in higher cognitive function.
Competing interests: No competing interests
07 December 2018
M.A. Aleem
Emeritus Professor of Neurology * Visiting Specialist in Neurology ** Consultant Neurologist ***
The Tamilnadu Dr.M.G.R. Medical University * Dhanalakshami Srinivasan Medical College ** ABC Hospital ***
Chennai 600032* Perambalure 621212** Trichy 620018***
Tamilnadu India
@drmaaleem
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