Exposure to nitrogen dioxide significantly increases the likelihood of being hospitalized for mental health conditions, a Scottish study finds.
Andrew Gregory reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- A study of over 200,000 people in Scotland shows a correlation between higher nitrogen dioxide exposure and increased mental health hospital admissions.
- The research analyzed pollution data between 2002 and 2017, linking it to conditions like behavioral disorders and mental illnesses.
- Experts suggest stricter environmental policies and renewable energy use could reduce hospital burdens for mental and physical health.
Key quote:
“Policies and interventions targeting air pollution emissions such as zero-emission zones or incentives for renewable energy in transportation and energy production sectors could help ease the hospital-care burden in the long term both locally and globally.”
— Dr. Mary Abed Al Ahad, University of St Andrews
Why this matters:
Air pollution is typically linked to physical health issues, but this study underscores its impact on mental health. Stricter regulations could protect millions from avoidable hospitalizations and improve public well-being.
Related EHN coverage:
- Seeking solutions: Pollution and mental health in western Pennsylvania
- Pollution and our mental health
- Is air pollution worsening kids’ mental health?
