Air pollution
Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) increases dementia risk, even at levels common in US cities.
Why it matters
Pollution particles enter the brain through the nose and blood, causing inflammation. HEPA filters and avoiding outdoor exercise on high-pollution days reduce exposure.
What to ask at the checkup
Ask whether air quality is a concern and what steps might reduce exposure
Screening: Local air quality index review
Sources
Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet Commission
Livingston G, Huntley J, Liu KY et al.. The Lancet, 2024.
Fourteen things people can change account for nearly half of dementia cases at the population level.
Long-term exposure to air pollution and risk of dementia
Younan D, Wang X, Casanova R et al.. Annals of Neurology, 2020.
Breathing polluted air over years was linked to more dementia, even at levels common in US cities.
Routines for this factor
Run the air purifier today
Turn on the HEPA air purifier in the room where most time is spent.
2 min, difficulty 1/3
Exercise indoors on high-pollution days
Check the air quality index and move exercise indoors if it is above 100.
10 min, difficulty 1/3