TRAFFIC POLLUTION IMPAIRS BRAIN

 

Yes, there is evidence to suggest that traffic pollution can impair brain function. Numerous studies have shown that exposure to traffic-related air pollutants, such as particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), is associated with a range of cognitive impairments, including decreased attention, reduced memory function, and impaired executive function.

For example, a study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives found that children living in areas with high levels of traffic-related air pollution had slower response times and decreased attention spans compared to children living in areas with lower levels of pollution. 

Another study published in the journal NeuroToxicology found that exposure to traffic-related air pollution was associated with decreased cognitive function in older adults.

The exact mechanisms by which traffic pollution impairs brain function are not yet fully understood, but it is thought that air pollutants may cause inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which can lead to damage to neurons and synapses.
Overall, these studies suggest that reducing exposure to traffic-related air pollution may be important for protecting brain function, especially in vulnerable populations such as children and older adults.

How to avoid traffic pollution 
Avoiding traffic pollution can be challenging, especially if you live in an urban or densely populated area with heavy traffic. However, there are several strategies you can use to reduce your exposure to traffic pollution:

Avoid high-traffic areas: 

If possible, try to avoid walking or cycling along busy roads during rush hour. Instead, choose quieter routes, such as side streets or green spaces.
Use public transportation: 

Using public transportation, such as buses, trains, or subways, can reduce your exposure to traffic pollution. If you do need to drive, consider carpooling or using an electric or hybrid vehicle.
Use air conditioning and air purifiers: 

When indoors, using an air conditioning system and air purifiers with HEPA filters can help remove pollutants from the air.
Wearing masks:

Wearing a mask can help filter out some of the pollutants in the air, especially particulate matter. Look for masks that are specifically designed for air pollution.
Stay informed: 

Check local air quality reports and avoid spending time outdoors during times of high pollution.
Planting trees:

Planting trees in urban areas can help absorb pollutants from the air and improve air quality.
While it may not be possible to completely avoid traffic pollution, taking these steps can help reduce your exposure and protect your health.

As of my knowledge cutoff date of September 2021, the latest study on traffic pollution and its impact on the brain was published in June 2021 in the journal Environmental Pollution. The study, conducted by researchers at Hasselt University in Belgium, investigated the link between traffic pollution exposure and cognitive function in a group of 207 healthy adults.
The participants completed a series of cognitive tests and wore personal air pollution monitors for a week to measure their exposure to particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) - two common traffic-related pollutants. The results showed that higher exposure to both PM and NO2 was associated with lower scores on the cognitive tests, particularly tests of memory and verbal fluency.
The study also found that the participants who had higher levels of physical activity had better cognitive function overall, suggesting that exercise may help counteract some of the negative effects of traffic pollution on the brain.
This study adds to the growing body of evidence that exposure to traffic-related air pollution can have harmful effects on cognitive function, even in healthy adults. It highlights the importance of reducing air pollution levels and promoting healthy behaviors, such as regular exercise, to protect brain health.