In a new study, researchers found that people living in rural areas may be at lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
The research was conducted by a team from the University of Wollongong in Australia.
In the study, the team analyzed data from more 260,000 adults in New South Wales in Australia who were aged 45 and over.
They found those living in regional or remote areas of the state had a 6% to 19% lower risk of being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease over 11 years, compared with their city counterparts.
The finding is different from previous research, which suggests people living in rural areas may be at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
The team explains that air pollution could play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
Tiny particles in the air can be very harmful. Once people breathe them in, they can enter the bloodstream and travel to every major organ, including the brain.
People living in big cities may be exposed to higher levels of air pollution, which may help explain why there is a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease it city dwellers.
Another explanation is that people living in big cities may have a harder time to sleep well at night chronic noise, air quality, and heat.
They may also have insufficient physical activities due to urban planning and may have a lack of social support.
Good sleep at night, regular physical activity, and active social interactions all may help to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, potentially via amyloid beta reduction.
All of the factors, including air pollution, may help explain the findings of the current study.
The researchers suggest people connect with nature, wherever they are. This can be done by relaxing in the garden or making regular visits to local parks.
The lead author of the study is Thomas Astell-Burt, Professor of Population Health and Environmental Data Science.
The study is published in the journal Health Place.
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