Studies link air pollution to mental health issues in children

A new study found that after exposure to short-term air pollution, children were more likely to go to the emergency room for anxiety and suicidal thoughts or attempts. Other research has also linked long-term pollution exposure to anxiety and depression in young people. 

Specifically, the study revealed a connection between an increase in air pollution and higher rates of suicidal thoughts and self-injury in people age 18 and under. Children in neighborhoods with higher poverty rates were even more likely to visit emergency rooms after days with poor air quality, the study showed. 

Click here to read the study in Environmental Health Perspectives.