Commentary: Air pollution and neurodevelopmental disorders: a cause for concern in an urbanising world

Abstract

The world’s population is rapidly urbanising, especially in low- to middle-income countries. However, urban living is associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) like autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and schizophrenia. Exposure to urban air pollutants like particulate matter has been positively associated with both ASD and schizophrenia diagnosis rates. Mechanistic studies have shown that particulate matter exposure leads to brain inflammation and white matter pathologies consistent with these disorders. Children are especially susceptible to these effects due to their rapidly developing nervous systems. Despite this, few reviews on the subject recommend future steps to mitigate the teratogenic effects of particulate air pollution. This commentary both synthesises evidence and recommends research and policy goals to protect children, both present and future, from the neurodevelopmental consequences of particulate air pollution. These steps include further study of the relationship between air pollution and equitable resource distribution to address the coming global rises in NDD. Furthermore, capacity building in urbanising nations is essential to overcome barriers erected by resource extraction and pollution outsourcing by wealthy nations. With such an integrated approach, progress can be made in protecting the developing nervous systems of children and future generations in both affluent and resource-strained nations.

Keywords

• Air pollution
• autism
• schizophrenia
• neurodevelopment
• urbanisation
• SDG 3: Good health and well-being