It’s no secret that over time air pollution can cause significant physical health problems. It’s been proven to increase the risk of respiratory illnesses, heart disease and lung cancer. But emerging research shows that poor air quality may also cause a notable problem for our brains. Studies have shown exposure to high levels of air pollution may increase an adult’s risk of cognitive decline and could damage cognitive abilities in children.

What is Air Pollution?

Concerns about air pollution aren’t new – they date back to ancient Rome. The Romans were the first group of people in Europe to use different metals to mass produce coins, household items and water pipes. Mining and smelting the metals released all types of pollutants into the air. But releasing toxins into the air didn’t stop with the Romans – it continues today to varying degrees in countries across the globe.

So much of what enters into the air is particulate matter. Particulate matter (PM) or particle pollution is a mix of solid particles and liquid droplets in the air. PM comes in all shapes and sizes, is made up of hundreds of different chemicals and is emitted from things like vehicles, power and manufacturing plants, construction sites, smokestacks, and fires. Things like dirt, dust, smoke, or soot are large and dark enough that we can see them. Other things that contribute to particulate matter are so small you can only see them using a microscope.

Particulate matter can be inhaled and the smaller the particle, the deeper it goes into your body. Larger pieces of PM may linger in your nose. Fine particulate matter can get deep inside your lungs and bloodstream and poses the greatest risk. Over time and through research, experts have realized particulate matter can cause serious physical health problems. But now there is growing research that it also affects our cognitive ability.

How Does Air Pollution Affect Our Brains?

As time has passed, more interest, attention and awareness have been brought to the correlation between air pollution and brain function. Research has shown even short-term exposure to fine particulate matter can affect the way our brains perform, as well as our ability to work.

Fine particulate matter can travel directly to the brain by way of the olfactory nerve. Many scientists believe the biggest concern is with heavy metals. When particles from metal reach the brain, they can directly damage neurons and disrupt the regulation of immune cells. Because the brain mistakes the particulate matter for pathogens, it releases chemicals to kill them. The chemicals can accumulate and cause inflammation. Chronic inflammation in the brain has been determined to be a factor in killing cells in the central nervous system. It’s also been shown to be a factor in dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Some studies show cognition problems related to air pollution tend to be more prevalent in people 50 and younger. Some studies show a connection between a child’s exposure to air pollution and their ability to learn.  One study looking at the connection between dementia and air pollution found even short-term exposure to air pollution led to a noticeable decline in memory and thinking.

The studies show day to day function can be affected by air pollution, with memory being the biggest sufferer. What you’re breathing in can cause reduced productivity – so your brain fog (as we often call it) may actually be a result of outdoor smog.

Air Pollution and Children’s Brain Development

Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution, as their brains are still developing and they breathe in more air relative to their body size compared to adults. Research has increasingly linked exposure to polluted air with impaired brain development, which can result in long-lasting cognitive and academic challenges.

Studies have shown that children living in areas with high levels of air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5), experience reduced cognitive abilities and slower brain development. This includes deficits in memory, attention span, and executive function, which are crucial for problem-solving and decision-making. For instance, a study conducted in California found that children exposed to elevated levels of air pollution during their formative years scored lower on IQ tests compared to children in less polluted areas. Other research has indicated that prolonged exposure to pollutants can hinder the development of key brain structures, such as the hippocampus, which is essential for memory and learning.

The impact on children’s academic performance can be significant. Cognitive impairments caused by air pollution may lead to difficulties in school, affecting their ability to learn new concepts, concentrate in class, and perform on standardized tests. These effects not only hinder their immediate academic success but could also have long-term consequences for their educational and career opportunities. Furthermore, cognitive delays in childhood have been linked to behavioral problems and lower socioeconomic status later in life, contributing to a cycle of disadvantage.

Beyond education, there are implications for future health outcomes. Research suggests that early exposure to air pollution may increase the risk of mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, which can persist into adulthood. Additionally, children who experience developmental delays in cognition may face a higher likelihood of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, as they age. This underscores the importance of addressing air pollution, especially in urban environments, to protect the brain health and development of future generations.

Air Pollution, Our Brains, and Baseball: Cognitive Impairment in Adults Due 

As air pollution continues to be a global concern, its effects are not limited to children. Adults are also at risk for cognitive impairments due to long-term exposure to polluted air. Studies have shown a clear association between air pollution and an increased risk of cognitive decline, memory loss, and even dementia, particularly in older adults.

One of the primary concerns is the long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other airborne toxins that can penetrate deep into the brain. These pollutants are believed to trigger inflammation in the brain, which can disrupt neural connections and accelerate neurodegenerative diseases. Chronic inflammation has been linked to the development of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Studies have found that people living in areas with higher levels of pollution tend to experience more rapid cognitive decline, and are more likely to develop conditions like Alzheimer’s compared to those in less polluted environments.

The impact of air pollution on cognitive abilities is not just a concern for the elderly. Adults of all ages may experience difficulty with memory, focus, and decision-making, which can affect both their personal lives and work performance. The most interesting though may be one that was done with Major League Baseball (MLB) umpires.

You may not always agree with their calls behind the plate, but we can all at least agree that MLB umpires are highly skilled and laser focused when doing their jobs.

In 2018, researchers decided to analyze pitch tracking data from MLB with air quality data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at baseball stadiums all over the United States. They wanted to see what, if any, effect air quality has on cognition in mentally taxing jobs. Since MLB umpires work in different cities throughout the season, it was easy to study calls made by the same umpires in different places.

MLB uses a multi-camera system in ballparks to track the trajectory of each pitch, so researchers could evaluate an umpire’s mistake within two inches or less. They then would compare blown pitch calls with the stadium’s air quality. The result: the higher the level of certain pollutants in the air, the worse the calls were. Specifically, high levels of carbon monoxide and fine particulates translated into significantly worse pitch calls and mistakes.

To determine the results, researchers took air quality readings from the nearest air quality station. Nearly all MLB ballparks have a federal air quality monitoring station located within 10 miles. Researchers found that a one part per million increase of carbon monoxide over the course of three hours resulted in an 11.5 percent increase in bad calls. The worst city for blown calls was Los Angeles – which has a high level of pollution.

These findings suggest that air pollution has a direct impact on adults’ ability to perform in mentally demanding jobs, such as those in healthcare, education, or high-stakes professions. Workers in such environments may experience cognitive fatigue and reduced productivity when exposed to pollutants over time. Additionally, the effects of air pollution on cognitive abilities may contribute to the overall burden of mental health conditions, as individuals are more likely to experience stress and anxiety due to their diminished cognitive capacity.

While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of air pollution on brain health, the growing body of evidence underscores the importance of clean air for maintaining cognitive function throughout life. Addressing pollution is not only essential for physical health but also for ensuring that individuals can maintain their mental sharpness as they age.

What is the US Doing to Combat Air Pollution?

Growing concerns about air pollution helped leaders in the United States begin to take air pollution more seriously. In 1970, Congress passed the Clean Air Act to reduce and control air pollution across the country. The legislation allowed federal and state authorities to regulate and determine safe limits for six major air pollutants. That list now contains 189 air pollution threats.

Since then, the US has reduced carbon monoxide emissions by 90 percent and the emission of particulate matter by 80 percent and it’s believed countless lives have been saved because of these and other regulations. The United States actually has healthier air now than it’s had in decades. But there’s still work to do – air pollution is believed to be the cause of tens of thousands of deaths every year in the U.S. It’s estimated that four in 10 Americans breathe unclean air every day.

What You Can Do to Protect Yourself from Air Pollution

While government regulations have helped improve air quality, there are still times when air pollution may pose a risk to your health. Fortunately, there are several actions you can take to protect yourself and your family from the harmful effects of polluted air.

Check Air Quality: Use Apps and Government Resources

One of the easiest ways to stay informed about air pollution levels in your area is to regularly check the Air Quality Index (AQI). The AQI is a system used by the EPA and other organizations to communicate air quality to the public. It provides a numerical score based on the concentration of pollutants in the air. Websites, apps, and local news sources often provide real-time updates on air quality, so you can plan your activities accordingly. Apps like AirNow and Plume Labs’ Air Report can help you monitor pollution levels and avoid outdoor activities when air quality is poor.

Limit Exposure: Avoid Outdoor Activities During High-Pollution Days

When pollution levels are high, it’s essential to minimize outdoor exposure, especially if you are in a sensitive group such as children, the elderly, or those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Pay attention to the AQI and avoid strenuous outdoor activities when the air quality is poor. If exercise is important, try to schedule it during times when pollution levels are lower, such as early mornings or late evenings. Alternatively, consider indoor workouts where air quality is more controlled.

Invest in Indoor Air Purifiers: How Air Purifiers Work

Since indoor air can be more polluted than outdoor air, investing in an indoor air purifier is one of the most effective ways to reduce the amount of harmful particles in your home. Air purifiers use HEPA filters (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) to capture small particles, including dust, pollen, smoke, and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). These filters can remove up to 99.97% of particles, providing cleaner air indoors.

When choosing an air purifier, look for one that matches the size of your room and has a CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) that suits your needs. Some purifiers also have additional filters for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and gases, which can be particularly useful in areas with industrial pollution. Top-rated air purifiers, such as the Alen BreatheSmart 75i and Coway Airmega, offer excellent filtration and real-time air quality feedback, ensuring that your home stays as clean as possible.

Other Measures: Switch to Electric Tools, Drive Less, Use Public Transportation

Beyond air purifiers, there are other ways to reduce your exposure to pollutants and help lower air pollution levels overall. Consider switching to electric-powered tools like lawnmowers, blowers, and trimmers, as these typically produce fewer emissions than their gas-powered counterparts. By reducing the number of pollutants generated by household tools, you can contribute to better air quality in your neighborhood.

Another way to reduce your exposure to outdoor air pollution is by driving less. Opting for public transportation, biking, or walking not only reduces your personal exposure to vehicle emissions but also helps lower the overall amount of pollutants in the atmosphere. If driving is necessary, consider switching to an electric vehicle (EV) to help cut down on greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants.

Additionally, creating a clean indoor environment can be further supported by improving ventilation in your home. Proper ventilation helps reduce the concentration of indoor pollutants, especially in areas like kitchens and bathrooms where pollutants like carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and VOCs are common.

By staying informed, minimizing exposure during high-pollution days, and taking steps to improve your indoor air quality, you can significantly reduce the risk of air pollution-related health issues and help promote a cleaner, healthier environment.

Top Air Purifier Choices

You can’t control the air outside, but you can control what’s circulating inside your home. Air purifiers are designed to pull the impurities out of the air and send clean, purified air back out. These units work with HEPA filters that pull up to 99.97 of bad particles out of the air. An air purifier can help you and your family breathe easier and stay healthy. If you’re in the market for an air purifier, here are some of our top recommendations:

Alen BreatheSmart 75i True HEPA Air Purifier

The BreatheSmart 75i cleans up to 1300 square feet every 30 minutes. It works with a HEPA filter and has a particle sensor that can let you know the air quality in real time and adjust accordingly. The unit has five fan speeds and is whisper quiet. It sells for between $700 and $800 and has a lifetime warranty. Read our review of the Alen 75i.

Samsung Cube

The Samsung Cube is a great model for smaller spaces. It will cover up to 310 square feet, has a three-stage filtration process and is equipped with a sensor that gives you real time feedback on the air quality in your room. The Cube has a child safety lock, is whisper quiet and energy efficient. The unit will cost between $700 and $800 and comes with a limited one-year warranty. Learn more about the Samsung Cube.

Summary

It’s becoming more apparent that air pollution has a negative impact on our brains and how they function. Studies have shown it can lead to everything from lower test scores in children to bad calls behind the plate in MLB games. More research must be done to determine how and why air pollution causes such cognitive trouble, but there’s enough evidence for scientists and lawmakers to work harder to come up with ways to control and regulate what’s in the air.