Reframing air pollution as a cognitive and socioeconomic risk

npj Clean Air 2026 Open access

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Authors: T. Faherty, Laura-Jayne A. Ellis-Bradford, Helen Onyeaka, Roy M. Harrison, Francis D. Pope
DOI: 10.1038/s44407-026-00059-4
Cited by: 2
References: 54

Abstract

Abstract Air pollution is a major environmental health risk, yet its cognitive impact remains under-recognised. Evidence links short- and long-term fine particulate matter (PM 2.5 ) exposure to reduced cognitive performance and intelligence quotient (IQ). We estimate global PM 2.5 -related IQ losses of 65 billion points, disproportionately affecting low- and lower-middle-income countries. Current air quality standards may not protect neurological health; this threat to global intellect requires nuanced regulation, targeted mitigation, and cross-sectoral policy.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Air Quality and Health Impacts Health Environment Cognitive Aging Air Quality Monitoring and Forecasting

Publication details

Journal / source
npj Clean Air
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
2
Issue
1
Pages
18–18
Publication date
9 March 2026
Language
EN