Delhi AQI worsens: Check the long-term dangers of toxic air exposure for brain health

After the Diwali festivities, the air quality index (AQI) in Delhi has deteriorated. The toxic air has been lingering in several states for the past few weeks and is the main cause of many diseases. Pollutants in the air can affect every part of the body, from lungs to nose, eyes and skin. Long-term exposure to toxic air can also affect brain health.

Long-term exposure to toxic air can affect brain health. (Shutterstock)

In an interview with HT lifestyle, Dr Biplab Das, Director and Senior Consultant Neurology, Narayana Hospital, Gurugram said, “Prolonged exposure to toxic air is increasingly recognized as a silent but serious threat to brain health. Unlike immediate respiratory symptoms, the neurological consequences can be insidious, accumulate over time and manifest in a variety of harmful ways.”

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Here are the dangers of toxic air to brain health:

Neuroinflammation

“One of the most worrying aspects is the potential for neuroinflammation: chronic exposure to pollutants triggers immune responses in the brain, triggering a cascade of inflammation. This persistent inflammatory state can weaken neural connections, disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters and increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s,” explains Dr. Biplab Das.

Oxidative stress

Oxidative stress disrupts energy production in brain cells, affecting cognitive functions such as memory, concentration and decision-making. This can further accelerate the aging process.

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Reduced cognitive skills and behavioral disorders

Dr. Sindhu DM, consultant neurologist and epileptologist, Apollo Hospitals, Sheshadripuram, Bangalore, said, “Children’s brains are sensitive to the adverse effects of air pollution. Toxic air is considered one of the risk factors for neurodevelopmental disorders in children, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Changes in brain structure

“The effects of air pollution on cognitive function in otherwise healthy individuals appear to worsen as exposure duration increases. MRI studies in humans have shown that increased exposure to toxic air is associated with changes in brain structure in older age groups, including atrophy,” said Dr. Sindhu D M.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor if you have any questions about a medical condition.