Air Pollution Linked to Alzheimer’s Disease

Did you know recent studies have found a link between exposure to air pollution and Alzheimer’s disease?

Poor air quality is already a known cause of long-term illnesses such as lung and heart disease. However, there is growing evidence to suggest a link between the quality of the air we breathe and Alzheimer’s disease.

As discussed in our previous post, The Cost of Poor Air Quality, poor indoor air quality (IAQ) impacts cognitive performance. Imaging studies have shown how exposure to PM2.5 can damage brain structure and impair function. Symptoms such as loss of concentration and decreased productivity are thought to be a result of this.

New research shows how poor IAQ could also have an even more damaging, long-lasting, effect on our brains. One report suggests that:

“Air pollution could account for roughly 21% of dementia cases worldwide” (Ref 1).

A study carried out by researchers across three UK universities analysed the brain tissues of 37 individuals (Ref 2). Toxic magnetite was found in abundant quantities. A correlation has been found between high amounts of brain magnetite and Alzheimer’s disease. Magnetite has previously been found in the brains of people who had died of Alzheimer’s.

From these findings the researchers concluded that:

“Magnetite nanoparticles in the atmosphere can enter the human brain” – Professor Maher (Ref 2).

These findings emphasise the need for an increased focus on improving IAQ. Employers have a duty of care toward employees and should take steps to improve IAQ for their employees. Both the business and employees will experience the benefits of increased productivity and improved health.

How to Improve IAQ

One very effective way to improve IAQ is to clean the outside air before you breathe it in. This can easily be achieved with high specification air purification.

The award winning Ingenious Air® Small Duct System combines a discreet heating and cooling system with high performance air purification. The optional purification module:

• Removes up to 96.3% of microscopic particles and airborne allergens as small as 0.3 microns
• Destroys airborne bacteria, viruses and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Reduces VOC chemical fumes and odours by up to 90% or more.

This provides a comfortable and safe indoor environment.