In case anyone needed another reason not to drive a gas car:
Long-term exposure to air pollution is associated with lower scores on tests of mental acuity, researchers have found. And one reason may be that air pollution causes changes in brain structure that resemble those of Alzheimer’s disease.
The New York Times
Alzheimer’s Shmalzheimers! I love the roar of an internal combustion engine! Mental acuity is sooo overrated, right? I was just thinking my brain structure has always been the same and it might be nice to change it up.
Over 11 years of follow-up, they found that the greater the women’s exposure to PM 2.5, the tiny particulate matter that easily penetrates the lungs and bloodstream, the lower their scores on the cognitive tests.
The New York Times
Yet more evidence that air pollution makes you stupid.
PM 2.5 alters brain structure, which then accelerates memory decline,” said the lead author, Diana Younan, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Southern California. “I just want people to be aware that air pollution can affect their health, and possibly their brains.”
The New York Times
We must transition to sustainable transport and zero emissions vehicles as soon as possible. We do not know the true costs.
Read the full story at the New York Times