Data showed infants prenatally exposed to PM10 levels at the 75th percentile scored three points lower on cognitive tests compared with infants exposed at the 25th percentile.
Timing of exposure played an important role in children’s developmental outcomes. During mid- to late- pregnancy, key circuits in the brain that support sensory, motor and communication systems form, explained author Zach Morgan.“The brain develops differently at different stages of pregnancy and when you have a disruption at a critical window that can affect the trajectory of that development,” Morgan said.
Although more studies are needed to understand how the pollutants affect developing brains, researchers note inhaled pollutants may come in contact with the fetus, potentially causing inflammation and oxidative stress that could alter neurodevelopment. Exposure might also affect babies’ gut microbiomes in ways that promote inflammation, potentially impacting brain health.
According to the World Health Organization, more than 90 percent of the global population is exposed to unhealthy levels of particulate matter. But in the United States, racial and ethnic minorities and low-income populations bear a disproportionate burden of exposure.Black Americans experience 56 percent more exposure to air pollution than they are responsible for creating. For Latinos, that total rises to 63 percent.
“Our findings highlight the importance of addressing the impact of pollution on disadvantaged communities and point to additional steps all families can take to protect their health,” said Alderete. She added that pregnant women should be vigilant about avoiding air pollutants when possible, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.
These women could invest in in-home air filtration systems, avoid exercising outdoors on high pollution days and avoid second-hand smoke.
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