As Medical News Today reports, the results of a recent study published in the July online issue of Pediatrics reveal that unborn children exposed to urban air pollution have an IQ lower than that of children exposed to less air pollution. The effect of these lower IQs is enough to affect academic performance.

Conducted in New York City by Dr. Frederica P. Perara of the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, the study measured the children's exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) while in the womb and then measured their IQs at the age of 5. Children exposed to more than the median level of PAH had overall verbal IQ scores over 4 points lower than children whose exposure levels fell below the median.

PAHs are harmful chemicals found in air pollution. They are the result of burning coal, diesel, oil, gas, and other organic substances, like tobacco. In urban areas, cars are the main source of PAHs.

PAHs can have a significant impact on those exposed to them. The children who were overly exposed to PAHs had IQ scores low enough to affect their school performance. In fact, Dr. Perara states, ‘The decrease in full-scale IQ score among the more exposed children is similar to that seen with low-level lead exposure.’

These findings underscore the need for air purifiers, especially for those who live in densely populated urban areas. Extra precautions should be taken with expectant mothers and young children.