New study of 712 women: Air pollution may contribute to Alzheimer’s and dementia risk – here’s what we’re learning from brain scans

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. It slowly destroys memory, thinking and behaviors, and eventually the ability to carry out daily tasks.
As scientists search for a cure, they have been learning more about the genetic and environmental factors that can increase a person’s risks of developing late-onset Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

Their early research in 2017 became the first study in the U.S. using both human and animal data to show that brain aging processes worsened by air pollution may increase dementia risk. Their latest studies show how older women who lived in locations with high levels of PM2.5 – the fine particulate matter produced by vehicles and power plants – suffered memory loss and Alzheimer’s-like brain shrinkage not seen in women living with cleaner air.

See Air pollution may contribute to Alzheimer’s and dementia risk – here's what we're learning from brain scans

#environment #airpollution #alzheimers #dementia

The tiny air pollutants known as PM2.5, emitted by vehicles, factories and power plants, aren’t just a hazard for lungs. A study finds more brain shrinkage in older women exposed to pollution.

source https://gadgeteer.co.za/new-study-712-women-air-pollution-may-contribute-alzheimers-and-dementia-risk-heres-what-were