Association of Ambient Air Pollution with Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms in Older Adults: Results from the NSHAP Study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Ambient fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) is among the most prevalent sources of environmentally induced inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are implicated in the pathogenesis of most mental disorders. Evidence, however, concerning the impact of PM_2.5 on mental health is just emerging.

Objective

We examined the association between PM_2.5 and current level of depressive and anxiety symptoms using a nationally representative probability sample (n = 4,008) of older, community-dwelling individuals living across the United States (the National Social Life, Health and Aging project).

Methods

Mental health was evaluated using validated, standardized questionnaires and clinically relevant cases were identified using

SUBMITTER: Pun VC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5332196 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature