Predicting the impact of climate change on air pollution is difficult. To date, research examining the effect of pollution on health in the UK has predominantly considered the nature of outdoor pollutants. Indoor pollutants, which depend on the design, ventilation properties, and thermal performance of buildings, must also be considered as the population is thought to spend up to 80 per cent of its time indoors. The effect of single pollutants on health has generally only been considered due to the analytical complexity of assessing combined effects and the inadequacy of pollutant exposure data.

Air pollution is linked with diseases of the central nervous system (CNS), including stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Various components of air pollution, such as nanosized particles, can easily translocate to the CNS, where they can activate innate immune responses.

Proposed workforce impact

• Increased demand for mental health services and intervention
• Increased prevalence of CNS disorders
• Greater demand for specialist care

Sources or references

• www.environment-agency.gov.uk
• www.defra.gov.uk
• www.cieh.org
• Genc et al., (2012), The Adverse Effects of Air Pollution on the Nervous System, J Toxicology, Article ID 782462

Additional research questions

• Is there enough funding and support to recognize the importance of air pollution and its effect on health?

Some of the information in this section is provided by stakeholders and expert groups, and does not necessarily represent the views of the CfWI.