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Air pollution linked to higher Parkinson’s risk, studies warn

By isabelle // 2025-03-18

• Air pollution significantly increases the risk of Parkinson’s disease, especially for genetically susceptible individuals, according to new studies in JAMA Network Open and The BMJ.
• High traffic-related air pollution raises Parkinson’s risk by 28%, with genetically vulnerable individuals facing up to three times higher risk.
• Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) from car exhausts and industrial processes can damage brain cells, contributing to Parkinson’s development.
• Global Parkinson’s cases are projected to double by 2050, with East Asia and South Asia expected to bear the highest burden.
• Reducing air pollution exposure through air purifiers, avoiding high-pollution days, and advocating for stricter regulations may help lower Parkinson’s risk.

Air pollution significantly increases the risk of Parkinson’s disease, especially for genetically susceptible individuals, according to new studies in JAMA Network Open and The BMJ. High traffic-related air pollution raises Parkinson’s risk by 28%, with genetically vulnerable individuals facing up to three times higher risk. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) from car exhausts and industrial processes can damage brain cells, contributing to Parkinson’s development. Global Parkinson’s cases are projected to double by 2050, with East Asia and South Asia expected to bear the highest burden. Reducing air pollution exposure through air purifiers, avoiding high-pollution days, and advocating for stricter regulations may help lower Parkinson’s risk. Air pollution, a pervasive environmental hazard affecting millions worldwide, may significantly increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, according to new research. Studies published in JAMA Network Open and The BMJ reveal that individuals living in areas with high levels of traffic-related air pollution face a greater likelihood of developing the neurodegenerative disorder, with genetically susceptible individuals at even higher risk. As Parkinson’s cases are projected to double globally by 2050, these findings underscore the urgent need to address air quality as a public health priority.

The link between air pollution and Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological condition affecting movement, currently impacts approximately 153,000 people in the UK and 500,000 in the U.S. Symptoms, including tremors, muscle stiffness, and slow movement, often appear only after significant nerve cell damage has occurred. While genetics play a role, environmental factors like air pollution are increasingly recognized as key contributors. Two major studies have highlighted the connection. Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, tracked over 1,300 adults in California and found that high levels of traffic-related air pollution increased Parkinson’s risk by 28%. A separate study in Denmark, involving more than 2,000 adults, revealed that air pollution nearly tripled the risk of the disease in genetically susceptible individuals. Combined, the studies suggest that those living in heavily polluted areas face a 9% higher risk of developing Parkinson’s. Air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), is thought to trigger inflammation in the body, which can damage brain cells. These pollutants, emitted from car exhausts and industrial processes, can cross the blood-brain barrier, leading to oxidative stress and the death of dopamine-producing neurons—a hallmark of Parkinson’s. “Notably, joint effects of both risk factors were much more pronounced, with Parkinson’s risk increasing up to threefold in genetically susceptible individuals exposed to high traffic-related air pollution levels,” the researchers wrote in JAMA Network Open.

A growing global burden

The global burden of Parkinson’s is expected to rise dramatically in the coming decades. A modeling study published in The BMJ predicts that by 2050, 25.2 million people worldwide will be living with the disease—a 112% increase from 2021. Population aging is the primary driver, but environmental factors like air pollution are also significant contributors. East Asia and South Asia are projected to have the highest number of cases, with 10.9 million and 6.8 million affected, respectively. In contrast, regions like central and eastern Europe are expected to see smaller increases due to lower population growth and aging rates.

Reducing your risk

While there is no cure for Parkinson’s, reducing exposure to air pollution may help lower the risk. Experts recommend using air purifiers, avoiding outdoor activities during high pollution days, and advocating for stricter air quality regulations. The World Health Organization has long called for tougher action on pollution, which is linked to 7 million deaths annually worldwide. “A reduction in air pollution may help reduce Parkinson’s disease risk,” the study authors noted. As the global population ages and urbanizes, the dual challenges of air pollution and neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s will only intensify. These studies highlight the critical need for policies that improve air quality and protect public health. For individuals, understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to minimize exposure could make a significant difference in reducing the burden of this debilitating disease. Sources for this article include: DailyMail.co.uk BMJGroup.com PMC.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov JAMANetwork.com

brain function toxins research chemicals Air pollution Parkinson's Disease neurodegenerative diseases badhealth badpollution