Gridlock Cause Brain Damage

University of Southern California released a study suggesting the air pollution drivers are exposed to is more harmful than once thought. Published in the “Environmental Health Perspectives”, not only can air pollution cause cardiac problems, it also causes significant brain damage.

The study exposed mice to the toxins released as a byproduct of the burning of fossil fuels, particles of weathered car parts, and pavement. Mice exposed to the pollutants had indications of brain damages, including Alzheimer’s.

Senior author of the report, Caleb Finch, released a statement saying “You can’t see them, but they are inhaled and have an effect on brain neurons that raises the possibility of long-term brain health consequences of freeway air.”

Research was prompted by a previous study conducted in Mexico which identified increased abnormalities in brain tissue from youth in areas of high pollution, that were not obvious in less congested areas of the country.

Every Day Pollution Linked To Brain Damage