People who live near busy roads have higher dementia rates

Conclusion Dementia is a growing problem as more people live longer. We don't yet know exactly how it develops, and it seems likely that a number of factors affect a person's chances of getting it, including genetics, lifestyle and other environmental factors. This study seems to add to evidence that something about living near busy roads – whether it be air pollution, noise or other unknown factors – also has an effect on the chances of getting dementia. There are several limitations to be aware of, however: the study only looked at where people lived at one point in time, and we don't know how well that represents their exposure to road noise or air pollution over the 12 year study period we don't know how people's individual behavioural risks might have affected the results. For example, people living near busy roads might take less physical exercise than those living in quieter areas some people with dementia or other diseases might not have been diagnosed Overall, this is a very large study which adds to concerns over pollution and health. Governments and health authorities should be aware of this research when putting together plans to tackle air pollution and when planning roads and housing. On an individual basis, there's not much you can do if you live near a busy road, especially if you're in a city where most people live near busy roads. However, it does make sense to reduce your exposure to pollution if you can, for example by walking on the further...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Neurology Lifestyle/exercise Older people Source Type: news