Analyzing the relationship between air and its impact on our health is relatively new. As more and more research is done, it has become clear that air quality has wide-ranging effects on our quality of life. Air particulates are shown to be linked to the entire spectrum of autism. Air pollution also can create pregnancy risks, cause mental health issues and affect a host of other human conditions. We are wise to devote more resources and do more studies as it relates to air quality and our overall well-being. It is clear that improving air quality – indoors and outdoors – points to better overall health. The links directly below explore in some detail the potential links between air quality and autism, including during pregnancies.

A critical review of developmental exposure to particulate matter, autism spectrum disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Traffic-Related Air Pollution, Particulate Matter, and Autism

Sex-specific associations of autism spectrum disorder with residential air pollution exposure in a large Southern California pregnancy cohort

Ambient Air Pollution and Autism in Los Angeles County, California

Associations of gestational diabetes mellitus with residential air pollution exposure in a large Southern California pregnancy cohort

All indications are that air quality does appear to impact quality of life. The studies below examine how particulate matter (PM) potentially is connected to Alzheimer’s disease.

Fine particulate matter is a potential determinant of Alzheimer’s disease: A systemic review and meta-analysis

Influence of PM2.5 Exposure Level on the Association between Alzheimer’s Disease and Allergic Rhinitis: A National Population-Based Cohort Study

Predisposition to Alzheimer’s and Age-Related Brain Pathologies by PM2.5 Exposure: Perspective on the Roles of Oxidative Stress and TRPM2 Channel

Long-term effects of PM2·5 on neurological disorders in the American Medicare population: a longitudinal cohort study

Credit: iStock, Toa55

Our environment not surprisingly impacts all living organisms within that environment. Studies show that air pollution affects airborne bacteria. The study of the pathogenic bacteria in airborne PM samples can provide a reference for environmental and public health researchers, according to the study here.

Effect of air pollution on the total bacteria and pathogenic bacteria in different sizes of particulate matter

 

 

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists indoor air quality as a major threat to our health. Abundant research supports its stance. All comprehensive infection control strategies must include an air quality component to achieve optimal success.