Long-term exposure to air pollution linked to increased risk of Parkinson’s disease Craig Brierley Wed, 07/08/2026 - 08:00 Air pollution is a major public health issue, with long-term exposure to fine particulate matter linked with an increased risk of various diseases, including stroke and dementia. It has also been implicated in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and motor neurone disease. However, studies have been underpowered and their findings are often inconsistent or inconclusive.