Study: Air Pollution Can Increase Dementia Risk

Illustration of air pollution (Photo: Freepik/EyeEm)

JAKARTA - A recent study reveals surprising facts. Air pollution can actually trigger one of the devastating forms of dementia, namely the Lewy body dementia. This type of dementia is the third most common after Alzheimer's and vascular dementia.

The study, published in the journal Science, found that very small fine pollution particles (PM2.5) could trigger the formation of toxic protein clumps in the brain.

This style is known as Lewy bodies, which spread and damage nerve cells, causing a decrease in memory, thinking disorders, and behavioral changes.

"Unlike age or genetic factors, air pollution is something we can change," said Dr. Xiaobo Mao, researcher from Johns Hopkins University, quoted from The Guardian's page.

"Clean air policy also maintains brain health," he continued

In this study, the researchers analyzed data on more than 56 million patients in the United States treated between 2000 and 2014. As a result, people living in areas with high air pollution have a greater risk of developing Lewy body dementia.

To strengthen these findings, scientists also conducted trials on mice. Rats exposed to PM2.5 pollution routinely show nerve damage, brain shrinkage and cognitive function reduction.

Meanwhile, mice that do not produce proteins that cause Lewy bodies are relatively unaffected.

There is a strong enough connection between air pollution and dementia Lewy body. In our opinion, this is a very important triggering factor, so keeping the air clean should be a priority," said Professor Ted Dawson, co-author of the study.

This finding adds to evidence of air pollution not only damages the lungs and heart, but also has a direct impact on the brain. Previously, research also found links to air pollution with Alzheimer's and decreased intelligence.

"By linking the exposure of fine particles to the biology of the Lewy body dementia, this study shows a clear bridge between the environment and disease. This further emphasizes the importance of efforts to reduce air pollution for public health." said Prof Charles Swanton of University College London.

This study gives a strong message that clean air is not only a matter of the environment, but also a matter of brain health. Reducing vehicle emissions, industry, and burning wood at home can be a real step to reduce the risk of dementia in the future.

"By lowering exposure to air pollution, we can reduce the risk of dementia on a population scale." explained Dr. Mao.