How can pollution damage the brain?
According to Dr. Mithilesh Kumar, a neurologist at Manipal Hospital (India), ultra- Fine dust particles (PM2.5), industrial emissions and nitric oxide in polluted air not only affect the lungs but can also penetrate the blood and reach the brain. When it enters the central nervous system, it can:
Causes inflammation and damage to nerve cells
Weakening the brain's blood barrier, the brain's natural defense mechanism
Causes oxidative stress and cognitive dysfunction
Heavy metals such as lead and mercury, often found in polluted or industrial wastewater, have also been shown to destroy brain structure and affect memory, concentration and learning.
Research shows the risk of increased alzheimer due to pollution
A study published in PubMed Central shows that people who are exposed to air pollution for a long time are at higher risk of dementia, especially alzheimer. The findings show that:
Prolonged exposure to polluted air significantly increases the incidence of dementia.
Pollution contributes to accelerating the formation of amyloid plaques in the brain, a characteristic of Alzheimer's disease.
While pollution is not the only cause of disease, it is an important environmental factor that can promote nerve aging.
Simple ways to help protect the brain from the effects of pollution
Although we cannot completely avoid pollution in modern life, we can completely proactively protect brain health through some changes in daily habits:
Maintain a clean and airy living environment: Using air purifiers, ensuring the house is airy, avoiding smoke and dust accumulation and using clean water will help minimize the impact of pollutants on the body.
Limit exposure to polluted environments: Wear a mask when going out, avoid places with high traffic density or areas under construction, and monitor air quality to adjust outdoor activity time appropriately.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: A nutritious diet, especially foods containing antioxidants, combined with regular exercise, adequate sleep and a relaxed spirit will help the brain function better and fight harmful environmental factors.
Regular health care: People living in polluted areas or at high risk of brain-related diseases should have regular health check-ups to promptly detect and handle problems related to memory or cognition.