Environmental pollution is an ever-growing problem. The biggest threat to humans are the pollutants that are present in the air we breathe in every day. Harmful substances that enter the atmosphere as a result of the combustion process have a significant impact on human health in terms of the emergence of many diseases, including chronic ones. In addition to respiratory or cardiovascular diseases, very dangerous changes are also observed in the nervous system.`
The effects of pollutants on the nervous system in children were studied in Mexico, where the study found anatomical (pathological) changes in children in the prefrontal cortex area in the context of exposure to higher concentrations of harmful substances in the air. Moreover: in histological studies, the presence of inflammation and gliosis in the brain of particulate matter was observed. This resulted in poorer psycho-technical test results in relation to a group of children whose exposure to harmful substances in the air was significantly lower [3].
Studies conducted in the USA (in Boston) also showed a strong association between exposure to high concentrations of particulate matter and pathological changes in the nervous system. In particular, impairment of cognitive function, memory and intelligence was noted. In particular, the effect of exposure to the fine fraction of particulate matter on the lowering of children's intelligence levels is highlighted [3].
Similar statements have been made on the basis of studies conducted in China
Harmful substances in the air do not only affect the development of the nervous system of children, adults and especially the elderly are also affected by the knocks of inhaling pollutants. Indeed, studies among the elderly show that the greater the exposure to pollutants, the more the intellectual performance of the elderly is reduced and the ageing of nervous system structures is accelerated [3]. An additional aspect is that scientists have advanced theories linking air pollution to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease [4].
Severity of effects
In addition to the aforementioned effects of air pollution on the nervous system, an increased incidence of depression is also found. As statistics show, residents of larger, more industrialised cities are more likely to have lowered mood and well-being regardless of the leading industry in the region [3]. In addition, regions with high concentrations of pollution are noted to have higher rates of suicide and violent crime [4].
Some of the most significant pathological changes and effects that air pollution can cause include attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), cognitive impairment, increased risk of depression, increased risk of neurodegenerative disorders, intelligence losses or reduced ability to focus and concentrate [4].
