Individuals committing suicide were found to be exposed to higher levels of PM10 in the two days before their attempt. Researchers at the Wroclaw Medical University in Poland reviewed 20 studies investigating the effects of air pollution on mental health. One study stated 15% of patients with severe depression eventually attempt suicide. The scientists stated all studies showed higher vehicle type air pollution increased suicide rates as well. As PM10 is a major component of traffic related air pollution, it clearly suggests a reduction in suicide (and depression) could quickly be achieved if vehicle related air polllution was reduced. Traffic pollutants increase neuroinflammation, as shown by higher blood markers of C-reactive protein (in another post) which in turn, increases depression - and also rising rapidly in children today.
Other important points discussed in the article include the ability of fine air pollution particles to bypass the blood brain barrier and enter the brain. Researchers stated experimental studies have confirmed that one of the main components of air pollution, PM2.5, as well as compounds
adsorbed on its surface, causes cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of neurons. This action, together with the oxidative stress and gene damage induced by these particles, maylead to degenerative changes in the brain [6]
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ABSTRACT
Air pollution is one of the greatest public health threats worldwide. All substances appearing in excessive quantities in the atmosphere, such as particulate matter, nitrogen oxides or sulphur oxides may be its ingredients. Depending on their size and nature, these compounds may cause greater risk of suffering from respiratory or cardiovascular diseases for exposed people as well as exacerbation and increased mortality due to these illnesses. Smaller particles may penetrate the brain's blood barrier and thus affect the central nervous system. In many studies, they have been shown to have negative effects on brain structure, like diminishing white matter or neuronal degeneration, leading to the earlier onset of Alzheimer or Parkinson disease. Nevertheless, there are reports of association of air pollution with mood disorders, depression, and even suicide. There are many risk factors for these conditions, most important of which are the social situation or chronic diseases. However, it has also been confirmed that the environment may affect mental health. This article will present experimental, clinical and epidemiological studies on exposure to air pollution and its impact on depressive disorders and suicide. Our goal is to determine the relationship between air pollution and incidence of depression and suicides.