What does air quality have to do with our cognition?
- Cognition and cognitive functioning are all about the mental capacities of learning, memory, attention, language, reasoning, and logic. Cognitive development is an inseparable element of the growth journey of children. As children grow up, their cognition plays a pivotal role in academic success and personal growth. Recognizing and dealing with any challenges that hinder this aspect of a child’s development is crucial for their lifelong learning and achievement.
- What does air quality have to do with brain health?
Rapidly reducing air quality is not only an environmental issue but also a quintessential element affecting the cognitive and academic performance of our younger generation. Recent research conducted by the leading national and international institutions such as the World Health Organization (WHO), Organization of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Indian Statistical Institute, and many others highlights the direct correlation between decreasing air quality index and cognitive functioning in children as a matter of grave concern.
- Is Declining Air Quality a Silent Attacker?
It has been observed that particulate matter, NO2, CO2, and other toxic chemicals pose a significant threat to our ability to think, learn, and solve problems, particularly affecting the cognitive development of children.
Dr. Ananya Sharma, a pediatrician from India, opined that children’s cognitive health is compromised due to air pollution. It’s a silent threat we cannot afford to ignore. Immediate action is needed to secure a healthier environment for our children.
A leading Environmental scientist from India, Dr. Rajesh Kumar, said that India is facing a critical juncture where the air quality crisis is not just a health concern but a threat to our children’s cognitive development. Urgent, coordinated efforts are needed to curb pollution and protect their future.
“Under-five mortality could be 50% higher than the current estimates by 2050 as a result of outdoor air pollution.” – Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
It is very startling to realize that the future of our society is at risk due to the highly increasing amounts of contaminants and pollutants in the atmosphere. By increasing our levels of negligence, we are putting ourselves and others at risk.
Former All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) director Dr Randeep Guleria said there have been studies that have linked air pollution to increased risks of brain stroke, dementia, and cognitive decline.
Air pollution is a risk factor for dementia according to the Lancet Commission, 2020.
There is an urgent need to initiate measures to address and mitigate the impact of air pollution on our mental faculties. Parents, teachers, educationists, and other stakeholders need to come up with appropriate strategies for a cleaner and greener environment to provide a conducive learning environment for growing children. It is imperative now that focus should be given to the adoption of sustainable environment practices, to reduce the exposure of children and young adults to pollutants, as well as to facilitate regaining air quality around our surroundings.
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