Even ‘safe’ levels of city pollution can affect a child’s cognitive development [Photo: Getty]

According to a new study, children exposed to ‘safe’ levels of air pollution during pregnancy are at risk of brain abnormalities, which can impair concentration during their school years.

Despite previous studies which have linked air pollution with cognitive decline and foetal growth development, the research is the first to note a correlation between ‘safe’ levels of nitrogen dioxide and changes in unborn babies‘ brains.

The study, conducted by scientists in the Netherlands, revealed that even ‘clean’ city air can result in a reduced academic performance during a child’s school years and can also lead to an increased risk of mental health problems in later life, The Times reports.

According to new research, nitrogen dioxide can contribute to changes in unborn babies’ brains [Photo: Getty]

Lead author of the study, Mònica Guxens, explained, “We observed brain development effects in relationship to fine particle levels below the current EU limit.”

She continued: “The observed cognitive delays at early ages could have significant long-term consequences such as increased risk of mental health disorders and low academic achievement, in particular due to the ubiquity of the exposure.”

These brain abnormalities affect inhibitory control (the ability to regulate impulsive behaviour) and can lead to long-term mental health conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

The study, published in Biological Psychiatry, analysed air pollution levels caused by traffic and cigarette smoking in the homes of 783 unborn children.

The team of scientists then performed brain imaging when the children were between the ages of six and ten to note any abnormalities in the thickness of the brain cortex of the precuneus and the rostral middle frontal region.

And as a consequence to the findings, Dr. Guxens concluded: “We cannot warrant the safety of the current levels of air pollution in our cities.”





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