New Delhi, November 2 (IANS). Long-term exposure to air pollution particles like PM 2.5 can have adverse effects on the memory and mental health of people of all ages. This has been revealed in a study. It is noteworthy that the air quality of Delhi continues to remain poor.
A layer of smog was seen in Delhi-NCR on Saturday morning and the air quality index (AQI) was recorded in the ‘poor’ category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s average AQI at 7:30 am was 294, with 18 places having AQI above 300, which falls in the ‘very poor’ category.
The study, based on 8,500 children, found that ammonium nitrate, a component of air pollution commonly produced by agricultural operations, can affect the learning and memory abilities of children aged 9-10 years.
According to the study, this component of PM 2.5, ammonium nitrate, increases the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia in adults. This shows that PM 2.5 can have adverse effects on mental health throughout the lifespan.
Ammonium nitrate is formed when ammonia gas released from agricultural operations and nitric acid released from the combustion of fossil fuels meet in the atmosphere.
Megan Harting, a professor at the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, said more research is needed on the sources of airborne particles and their chemicals. He explained that understanding these elements will help in controlling air quality and understanding the long-term mental effects.
For the study the team used special statistical techniques on 15 chemical components of PM 2.5 and their sources. Ammonium nitrate was identified as the main ingredient.
–IANS
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