We worry about air pollution’s effects on our lungs and hearts. But a growing body of research reveals an even more alarming target: the brain. From children’s developing intelligence to older adults’ cognitive decline, air quality affects cognition in ways we’re only beginning to understand. Key Takeaway: Chronic exposure to …
Assessing Air Pollution’s Impact on Health and Cognitive Function
Landrigan et al. (2022) present a detailed strategy for evaluating how air pollution affects health and cognitive function at the community level. Their study focuses on Massachusetts, revealing significant health outcomes and IQ loss even at air pollution levels below current EPA standards. The findings emphasize the need for stricter …