A study found that even brief exposure to diesel fumes can negatively affect the human brain. The research demonstrated decreased functional connectivity in the brain’s default mode network due to short-term pollution exposure.
In a study published in Environmental Health, researchers analyzed the brains of 25 adults and found that exposure to diesel fumes led to a decrease in functional connectivity compared to clean air. The study highlights the potential long-term detrimental effects of diesel exhaust on brain health.
Additionally, another study showed that poor air quality can impair cognitive function, as observed in the performance decline of chess players. These findings underscore the importance of addressing air pollution and its impact on brain health and overall health.