A new study from scientists at Yale School of Public Health has found a strong link between long-term exposure to ozone and an increased risk of cognitive decline in older adults. This research adds to mounting evidence that air pollution could be a significant risk factor for an aging society.
Previous studies have suggested that fine matter floating in high concentrations in the atmosphere can lead to dementia and other cognitive disabilities. However, beyond airborne particles, little is known about how other pollutants can pose a similar risk.
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The new study published in Environment International included an analysis of ambient ozone, a highly reactive gas that exists in much of smog at ground level. Researchers then observed outcomes in nearly 10,000 older adults across China and focused on the extent to which long-term ozone exposure may have impacted their cognitive impairment over time.
Researchers found some startling results. For every ten microgram increase of yearly average ozone, the risk for cognitive impairment grew more than 10%. It was also noted that the association held even when risk factors such as smoking, drinking, and education were abstracted away.
The study lead author said, “Our findings suggest potential benefits in delaying the progression of cognitive decline among older adults if ozone levels are reduced below the new WHO Global Air Quality Guideline for ozone pollution.”
This study is the first to establish this link between ozone levels and cognitive impairment across a large population over several years. Researchers believe more studies are needed to build upon these findings to help establish more reliable air quality guidelines across the globe.
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Sarah began her interest in nutritional healing at an early age. After going through health problems and becoming frustrated with the conventional ways doctors wanted to treat her illness (which were not working), she took it upon herself to find alternative treatments. This led her to revolutionize her own diet to help her get healthier and tackle her health problems. She began treating her illness by living a more balanced lifestyle through healthy food choices, exercise and other alternative medicine such as meditation. This total positive lifestyle change led her to earn a diploma in Nutritional Therapy from Health Sciences Academy in London, England. Today, Sarah enjoys helping others by teaching healthy lifestyle changes through her personal consultations and with her regular contributions to the Doctors Health Press. Also, passionate about following her dreams in life, Sarah moved to France and lived in Paris for over 5 years where she earned a certification in beadwork and embroidery from Lesage (an atelier owned by Chanel). She then went on to be a familiar face sitting front row and reporting from Paris Fashion Week. Sarah continues to practice some of the cultural ways of life she learned while in Europe. They enjoy their food, and take the time to relax and enjoy many of life’s little moments. These are life lessons she is glad to have brought back home with her.
