Exposure to air pollution and cognitive function based on the minimum mental state examination: a systematic review...

Evidence regarding the cognitive effects of air pollution is inconsistent. This study aimed to quantitatively analyze the relationship between air pollutants and cognitive abilities using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). We systematically searched for studies published until July 1, 2023, and assessed heterogeneity with Cochran's Q test and I² statistics, while publication bias was evaluated using Funnel plots and Egger's test. Out of 380 studies, 17 were included in the meta-analysis. Results demonstrated significant relationship among long-term exposure to PM_2.5, O₃, and cognitive decline. The pooled RR of cognitive impairment per 10μg/m³ increase were 1.17 for PM_2.5 and 1.07 for PM₁₀. Furthermore, there was a significant association between cognitive decline and long-term exposure to PM_2.5 (β = -0.30; I² = 95.30%) and PM₁₀ (β = -0.15; I² = 87.50%). Our research suggests that long-term exposure to air pollution, especially PM_2.5, is a risk factor for cognitive impairment.