TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University found that air pollution may affect brain health in older adults.

Air pollution, linked to lung cancer, may stimulate the immune system through smell, triggering inflammation. This inflammation could damage the blood-brain barrier, leading to injury in the brain's blood vessels, ultimately affecting neurological health, per CNA.

University researchers used models to estimate 10-year air pollution levels, including PM2.5, NO2, ozone, and PM10. They studied 412 adults, ages 60 and older, living in rural and urban areas. The team conducted cognitive tests and MRI scans to analyze changes in their brain structure.

The researchers found a positive correlation between reduced PM2.5 and NO2 levels and improved attention in older adults. MRI scans also showed structural changes in brain regions responsible for attention and memory when the pollutants' concentrations decreased.

National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University Public Health Institute Associate Professor Chuang I-fang (莊宜芳) said air pollution is a risk factor for impaired cognitive function. She said research on how air pollution affects brain structure is limited, and this study helps clarify the relationship between air pollution and brain health in older adults.

Chuang said that brain aging speed is influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. While genetics are innate and unchangeable, lifestyle and environmental factors can be adjusted.

Chuang added that improving air pollution can promote brain health and cognitive function in older adults, delaying the risk of dementia.

National Cheng Kung University researchers collected nasal and gastrointestinal samples from about 50 children with asthma. Using satellite data to study green space distribution near the children's homes, combined with air pollution data, the study found higher air pollution near homes linked to more harmful bacteria in the children's nasal and gut microbiome.

The Ministry of Environment said Taiwan experienced poor air quality in February and March due to accumulating cross-border pollutants. It coordinated with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Taipower to reduce thermal power plant output to decrease greenhouse gas emissions.