Air pollution’s effect on brain: How exposure to pollutants can raise risk of Parkinson’s disease; symptoms to watch out

Yet another devastating effect of air pollution could be an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease. Here’s how particulate matter can play havoc with your brain.

Introduction

1. Air pollution kills 7 million people prematurely every year as per WHO and deteriorates our lung, heart, and brain health over a period of time.
2. Particulate matter that can range from 0.01 microns to 300 microns can enter our bloodstream and go deep into the lungs.
3. Air pollution can cause inflammation in the brain leading to cell injury.

Impact on Parkinson’s Disease

• A recent study published in the journal, Movement Disorders, explored how air pollution could be increasing the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
• The study discusses how components of air pollution reach the brain through the bloodstream or breathing through the nose and wreak havoc.
• Pollutants and toxins can be poisonous to the nervous system and cause inflammation, which can increase the accumulation of alpha-synuclein – a protein found in the brain that plays a key role in Parkinson’s and decrease the number of dopaminergic neurons.
• Air pollution can also cause gut inflammation and the local accumulation of alpha-synuclein, which can then spread from the gastrointestinal tract (the gut) through the vagus nerve into the brain, leading to a loss of dopamine.

What is Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that causes unintended or uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. It primarily affects individuals over 50 years old, but early-onset Parkinson’s can affect around 5-10% of people. The neurodegenerative disorder affects the dopamine-producing neurons in the area of the brain called substantia nigra. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter made in the brain that acts as a chemical messenger and communicates messages between brain nerve cells and the rest of the body. According to WHO, 92% of the world’s population lives in areas with unhealthy air. Secondary parkinsonism occurs when symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease are caused by certain medicines, a different nervous system disorder, or another illness.

Impact of Air Pollution on Parkinson’s Disease

Mounting evidence shows that air pollution increases the risk of developing the neurodegenerative disease, including Parkinsonism. Exposure to air pollution causes about a 25% increased risk of Parkinson’s disease. Risk is further increased with long-term exposure to air pollutants such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitric dioxide. Some of these air pollutants are so tiny that once inhaled, they enter the bloodstream and then breach the blood-brain barrier to enter the brain. Once in the brain, it is thought that air pollutants may trigger inflammation and damage nerve cells.

Telltale Signs of Parkinson’s Disease

In Parkinson’s disease, patients’ routine activities of daily living become slow, they walk with short steps, and have a tendency to fall. People may have expressionless faces, stooped posture, stiffness in the body, tremors in hand, forgetfulness, drooling of saliva, and more. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive and disabling disease. Air pollution is a potentially preventable risk factor for Parkinsonism.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
   • Indicator 3.9.1: Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution.

2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

   • Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
   • Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g., PM2.5 and PM10) in cities (population-weighted).

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Analysis

The article discusses the impact of air pollution on brain health, specifically its connection to an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease. Based on the content of the article, the following analysis can be made:

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The issues highlighted in the article are connected to the following SDGs:

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets under the identified SDGs are:

• Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
• Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

• Indicator 3.9.1: Mortality rate attributed to household and ambient air pollution.
• Indicator 11.6.2: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (e.g., PM2.5 and PM10) in cities (population-weighted).

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: hindustantimes.com

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