Clearing the air: A systematic review of studies on air pollution and childhood brain outcomes to mobilize policy change

• Published in: Developmental cognitive neuroscience 2024-10, Vol.69, p.101436, Article 101436
• Main Authors: Parenteau, Anna M., Hang, Sally, Swartz, Johnna R., Wexler, Anthony S., Hostinar, Camelia E.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Air pollution; Brain development; Children; Health; Original Research; Policy; Systematic review
• ISSN: 1878-9293; 1878-9307; 1878-9307
• DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2024.101436

Climate change, wildfires, and environmental justice concerns have drawn increased attention to the impact of air pollution on children’s health and development. Children are especially vulnerable to air pollution exposure, as their brains and bodies are still developing. The objective of this systematic review was to synthesize available empirical evidence on the associations between air pollution exposure and brain outcomes in developmental samples (ages 0–18 years old). Studies were identified by searching the PubMed and Web of Science Core Collection databases and underwent a two-phase screening process before inclusion. 40 studies were included in the review, which included measures of air pollution and brain outcomes at various points in development. Results linked air pollution to varied brain outcomes, including structural volumetric and cortical thickness differences, alterations in white matter microstructure, functional network changes, metabolic and molecular effects, as well as tumor incidence. Few studies included longitudinal changes in brain outcomes. This review also suggests methodologies for incorporating air pollution measures in developmental cognitive neuroscience studies and provides specific policy recommendations to reduce air pollution exposure and promote healthy brain development by improving access to clean air. •Children are especially vulnerable to air pollution, as their brains and bodies develop.•A systematic search identified 40 empirical articles on air pollution and brain outcomes.•Results link air pollution to varied child brain outcomes (structural and functional).•Policy recommendations for reducing children’s air pollution exposure are provided.