Living near heavy traffic increases risk of dementia, say scientists

Study tracking 6.6 million people estimates one in 10 cases of Alzheimer's among those living by busy roads could be linked to air and noise pollution

People living near a busy road have an increased risk of dementia, according to research that adds to concerns about the impact of air pollution on human health.

Roughly one in 10 cases of Alzheimer's in urban areas could be associated with living amid heavy traffic, the study estimated - although the research stopped short of showing that exposure to exhaust fumes causes neurodegeneration.