Scientists warn of increased risk of developing MS from long-term air pollution exposure
Yahoo • • health
Key Points:
- New research published in the Annals of Clinical and Translational Neurology links long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) with a 20-21% increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Short-term exposure to particulate matter and other pollutants like carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide is associated with worsening symptoms, increased relapses, and lesion development in people already diagnosed with MS.
- The study highlights the public health importance of reducing air pollution, as MS affects 2.8 million people globally and contributes to significant economic burdens, while air pollution impacts 99% of the world's population and causes millions of premature deaths annually.
- Efforts to improve air quality include promoting electric vehicle adoption, enforcing regulations like the U.S. Clean Air Act, and transitioning to cleaner energy sources such as wind and solar power to reduce reliance on oil and gas.
