Childhood exposure to indoor air pollution linked to long term brain harms

Childhood exposure to indoor air pollution may have long-term effects on brain health, with cognitive impairment appearing decades later, new research suggests.

The study analysed data from over 7,000 Chinese adults aged 45 and above using machine learning techniques.

Nearly 30 per cent of the global population, roughly 2.4bn people, still cook without clean fuels such as gas or electricity, instead using solid fuels like coal, wood and plant waste.

Researchers at the University of Helsinki found that individuals exposed as children to indoor air pollution from solid fuels performed significantly worse on cognitive tests in adulthood, particularly in episodic memory and overall mental health.

The study identified two main pathways through which childhood exposure may contribute to poorer cognitive performance: biological, including being overweight and limitations in daily activities; and socioeconomic, with exposure associated with lower education and income levels.

Men, smokers and regular alcohol users were particularly vulnerable to the detrimental effects.

Xu Zong, the study’s author, said: “Our study emphasises that early exposure to air pollution affects later cognitive health through both biological and social pathways.

“That is why public health efforts should combine clean energy initiatives with preventive strategies that support lifelong health and positive behaviours.

“Switching to cleaner fuels, such as gas or electricity, is not merely an environmental or respiratory health measure.

“It is also an investment in long-term cognitive wellbeing that could safeguard brain health for future generations.”