Study Discovers Association Between Air Pollution and Alzheimer’s Disease in Brain Tissue
TLDR
- A study by Emory University’s School of Public Health links higher concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) to increased amyloid plaques in the brain, a sign of Alzheimer’s disease
- Individuals exposed to higher levels of PM2.5, particularly traffic-related air pollution, showed more Alzheimer ‘s-related plaques in their brains
- The strongest association was found in individuals without the APOE gene variant, suggesting the impact of environmental factors on Alzheimer’s risk
- Lead researcher Anke Huels emphasizes the study’s evidence linking air pollution to Alzheimer’s but notes the need for further research
- Political decisions and individual actions like limiting outdoor time and using masks can reduce air pollution exposure
- Heather Snyder, the Alzheimer’s Association vice president of medical and scientific relations, highlights the complexity of Alzheimer’s disease and the need for continued research to understand the role of air pollution
A groundbreaking investigation conducted by Emory University’s School of Public Health revealed a concerning link between air pollution and Alzheimer’s disease.
The study suggests that individuals exposed to higher concentrations of fine airborne particulates, such as those found in diesel exhaust or other traffic-related air pollutants, are likelier to exhibit signs of Alzheimer’s disease in their brains.
The study looked at brain tissue from 224 people in the metropolitan area of Atlanta who, before passing away, volunteered to donate their brains for research.
It found that people exposed to higher levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) were more likely to have increased levels of amyloid plaques in their brains.
These plaques are abnormal protein clusters linked to Alzheimer’s disease, even in those without a genetic risk for the condition.
Notably, the study demonstrated that residents living in areas with high traffic-related air pollution exhibited more Alzheimer ‘s-associated plaques in their brains upon death, increasing their risk of developing the disease.
Furthermore, the strongest association between air pollution and Alzheimer’s signs was observed in individuals lacking the APOE gene variant, a primary genetic risk factor for the disease.
This suggests that environmental factors, such as air pollution, may play a role in Alzheimer’s disease for patients whose condition is not genetically influenced.
The study adds to the growing evidence that inhaling pollution may cause “plaques” or deposits in the brain, a characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease.
Anke Huels, the lead researcher also serving as an assistant professor at Emory University’s School of Public Health, emphasized that while the study didn’t prove a direct cause, it did offer strong evidence linking specific types of pollution to Alzheimer’s disease.
Huels emphasized the necessity of political decisions and changes to effectively reduce air pollution exposures, noting that there is no safe or healthy level of air pollution overall or from traffic sources.
She added the most effective way to reduce exposure is by making individual changes, like avoiding outdoor activities when pollution levels are high and wearing a mask when needed.
Using electric vehicles or public transportation can also help reduce air pollution.
She urged more research to understand why this connection exists.
Gaurab Basu from Harvard’s Center for Climate, Health, and the Environment emphasized that the study highlights the dangers of ambient air pollution to the brain.
Basu stated that we usually focus on how air pollution affects the lungs, but it’s important to prioritize the brain when considering its impact on our health.
The study predominantly included white participants, with 59% being male and an average age at death of 76 years old.
Basu emphasized the importance of addressing environmental justice issues related to pollution exposure disparities in vulnerable communities.
Not everyone is affected the same way by this pollution, he explained. Vehicular air pollution is a matter of health equity.
Heather Snyder, the Alzheimer’s Association vice president of medical and scientific relations
emphasized the need for ongoing research to understand better the complex relationship between air pollution and brain health.
We understand that Alzheimer’s is complex, and several factors likely affect a person’s risk over their lifetime, Snyder explained.
Avoiding air pollution exposure is a risk factor that some people can change, but it’s not as easy for others.
This study adds to the increasing evidence linking ambient air pollution to cognitive decline.
Recent studies have found that exposure to traffic-related fine particulate matter is associated with thinner gray matter in the brain, potentially impacting learning and memory.
Experts highlight that air pollution exposure is associated with cognitive decline, mood disorders, and Alzheimer’s disease.
The study provides important insights into how air pollution is linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
This highlights the urgent need for effective strategies to reduce pollution and protect public health.
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