Exposure to air pollution increases risk of depression and anxiety in older people, study finds

Study examined one of the most damaging forms of air pollution, which is fine particulate matter and referred to as PM2.5, which is mainly caused by the burning of solid fuels such as coal, peat and wood for heating. Picture: Clare Keogh

Long-term exposure to air pollution increases the risk of poor mental health in older people, new research has suggested.

The study from the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) found higher than average levels of a particular kind of air pollution was significantly associated with higher levels of depression and anxiety.