Hyderabad: Air pollution could be a leading cause of vandalism and other delinquent behaviour among youth, shows a recent study.

The study by the University of Southern California found that bad teenage behaviour is linked to increased air pollution.

The particulate matter, which is causing cardiovascular and respiratory problems, is now linked to neural problems as well.

Dr Alok Ranjan, a senior neurosurgeon, said that the particulate matter is like poison for one’s brain.

“The particulate matter can cause hypoxia which is lack of healthy oxygen in the brain. Through the particulate matter, chemicals enter the brain. It can cause blood vessels and brain cells to get damaged,” he added.

Neurologists said air pollution can have a direct impact on the brain. Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist, said, “The brain of a young child, two years or so can be adversely affected so, that he may have five or 10 less IQ points. Similarly, a teenage child tends to be more aggressive, irritable and also throws more temper tantrums because of the presence of toxic particulate matter in the brain. It is possible the child indulges in bad behaviour due to the overall aggressive mood.” He also stated that air pollution could lead to more migraines and headaches.

The neurologists also said the particulate matter can cause inflammation in the brain. “Inflammation is the final pathway to damage in the brain. The nerve cells die in the brain. Breathing toxic air is just like smoking as you let chemicals enter your body,” said Dr Alok Ranjan.