A recent study by researchers at the University of Cambridge has found a strong link between exposure to certain air pollutants and an increased risk of developing dementia. The study, which analyzed data from over 29 million participants worldwide, found that long-term exposure to PM2.5, nitrogen dioxide, and soot increases the risk of dementia.
The researchers discovered that for every 10 micrograms per cubic meter of PM2.5, the relative risk of dementia increases by 17%. Soot levels also showed a significant association with an increased risk of dementia, rising by 13% for equivalent exposure levels.
Air pollution is known to cause inflammation in the brain and oxidative stress, leading to cell damage and protein mutations. The study’s findings provide further evidence that tackling air pollution can deliver long-term health benefits, including reducing the burden on patients, families, and healthcare systems.
The study’s authors emphasized the need for government leadership to address this issue. Alzheimer’s Research UK is calling for a coordinated approach to tackle dementia risk factors, including air pollution, which is considered one of the major modifiable risk factors for dementia.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/jul/24/air-pollution-raises-risk-of-dementia-say-cambridge-scientists