Long-term exposure to air pollutants, such as fine particles and nitrogen oxides, can have lasting effects on the brain, according to a recent study led by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health. The study, which involved 4,000 participants followed since birth, found that higher exposure to these pollutants during pregnancy and childhood led to changes in the microstructure of the brain’s white matter. These changes, which were measured using brain scans, persisted into adolescence and were associated with a delay in the development of fractional anisotropy. Researchers believe these findings are due to changes in myelin, the protective sheath around nerves.
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Exposure To Air Pollution During Pregnancy And Childhood Have Lasting Effects On Brain: Study
