A study has found that exposure to Traffic-Related Air Pollution (TRAP) can alter brain chemicals in children.
It may increase the risk of mental disorders such as anxiety and depression.
Traffic-related air pollution contributes significantly to outdoor air pollution, especially in urban settings.
Researchers from the University of Cincinnati in the U.S. checked for the levels of “myo-inositol” found in the brain of 145 children (average age 12 years).
Myo-inositol is a naturally-occurring metabolite mainly found in specialised brain cells known as “glial cells”.
They are responsible for
Maintaining cell volume and fluid balance in the brain
Regulating the hormones and insulin in the body.
The research evidence suggested that central nervous system is particularly vulnerable to air pollution.