New research into air pollution and dementia finds link with cognitive ageing

Research presented at Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) today shows that air pollution could have an effect on cognitive ageing.

Results showed that exposure to air pollution in early life was linked to cognitive ageing, but it had little effect in later life.

Dr Doug Brown, Chief Policy and Research Officer at Alzheimer’s Society:

'This study adds to a myriad of research showing that exposure to air pollution can cause small particles to enter the brain – but it’s a huge leap to say that air pollution could cause dementia.

'The causes of dementia are complex and we need larger, more robust research into how pollution affects brain health to understand if it plays a role in people developing dementia.

'With no cure for dementia, and someone developing the disease every three minutes in the UK, prevention is key. The best evidence at the moment suggests improving lifestyle factors like diet and exercise, and stopping smoking, can reduce our dementia risk.'