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Study Links Early Air Pollution Exposure to Childhood Obesity via Impulse Control
Research on 434 children found higher PM2.5 exposure in the first year of life associated with weaker impulse control and higher body mass index between ages four and eight. The study identifies a potential pathway between a common air pollutant and obesity measures.
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A peer-reviewed study of children in Mexico City found that higher exposure to fine particulate matter during the first year of life correlated with greater difficulty controlling impulses later in childhood. Those impulse-control differences were in turn associated with higher body fat and body mass index between ages four and eight.
Researchers modeled ambient PM2.5 levels during pregnancy and the first year after birth for 434 children born mostly in 2007-2008. The children were later assessed for impulsivity and obesity measures as part of an ongoing longitudinal health study.
PM2.5 consists of microscopic particles from traffic emissions and fossil fuel combustion and has previously been linked to metabolic disruption. The study authors noted that the first year of life represents a sensitive period for brain development.
The authors reported limitations including small sample size and limited covariates. A clean transportation scientist not involved in the research stated the findings provide sufficient evidence to support policies reducing PM2.5 exposure.
