THE EFFECT OF AIR POLLUTION ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF DEMENTIA IN OLDER PEOPLE

Abstract

Abstract Background: Both dementia and air pollution are current and growing issues of concern globally today. Unlike the relationship between air pollution and the health of the human heart or lung, which is supported by a lot of evidence, the effects of pollution on human cognitive health and brain functions are less clear. More research is required to clarify this link, its causes, and its strength. However, the available evidence makes a strong case for investment into controlled studies that can help with a better understanding of the potential of development of dementia in older people exposed to pollution. There is a plausible link between the incidence of dementia in the elderly and some specific air pollutants. Since a number of studies have explored the impact of pollution on cognitive functions, it is important to review them in order to determine the strength of the link between air pollution and dementia. Aims: The objectives of the Narrative review of literature are to identify sources that explain the relationship between exposure to air pollution and the incidence of dementia in old people. A review of evidence base that depicts the relationship between air pollution and cognitive decline, which ultimately leads to dementia, will be conducted. Methods: Research was carried out on databases such as Medline, PubMed, Embase and PsychINFO for publications that linked exposure to air pollution and incidence of dementia in the elderly. Search terms such as dementia, air pollution, particulate matter, and cognitive decline were utilized. Studies on exposure to smoking or occupational exposure to aid pollution were excluded. Animal studies, systematic reviews, and studies not written in English were also excluded.

Results: The literature search identified 1377 articles and excluded those dated earlier than 1995, animal studies, systematic reviews, and duplicates. Out of these, 16 articles were found to be relevant. The CASP tool was used to assess validity and quality of the articles, with all 16 articles deemed suitable and included in this narrative review. This study found that higher levels of exposure to these gases are associated with an increased risk of dementia. The paper concludes that greater exposure to air pollution is strongly associated with the incidence of dementia. Conclusion: Whereas there are other factors associated with the incidence of dementia, air pollution is its biggest contributor. Of all the pollutants, particulate matter seems to pose the greatest risk and is strongly related to the incidence of dementia. Future research should explore the link between the incidence of dementia and dust particles not related to fossil fuels and other pollutants. They should explore whether particulate matter from ordinary dust particles, emanating from materials such as soil, sand, rock, and even powders are related to the incidence of dementia.