Introduction: This meta-analysis addresses the critical need to understand the impact of air pollution on neurodegenerative disease progression, particularly in post-surgical patients who are especially vulnerable due to temporary disruptions in the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and increased inflammatory responses after neurosurgery. Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and ALS, are increasingly linked to environmental pollutants, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide. These pollutants are known to exacerbate oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and BBB permeability—pathways central to neurodegeneration. While existing research has largely focused on the general population, there is a significant gap regarding pollution’s influence on post-operative neurodegenerative patients. This study aims to evaluate how these pollutants accelerate cognitive and motor decline, providing a foundation for clinical guidelines and environmental protocols to protect this vulnerable population.
Methods: This meta-analysis systematically reviewed and synthesized findings from studies across neurology, environmental health, and post-operative care. Research databases were searched for studies examining specific pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide) and neurodegenerative disease progression. Inclusion criteria focused on studies with post-operative neurodegenerative patients or models simulating conditions with compromised BBB integrity. Data were extracted on pollutant type, exposure levels, neurological outcomes, and biomarkers of susceptibility, including inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress indicators. Statistical analyses assessed the strength and consistency of pollutant effects across studies, identifying key factors exacerbating symptoms in post-operative patients.
Results: The analysis reveals a significant association between fine particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and accelerated neurodegenerative decline in post-surgical patients. Evidence indicates that these pollutants intensify oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, worsening cognitive and motor decline in patients with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and ALS. High pollution exposure post-surgery was linked to increased BBB permeability and elevated neuroinflammatory biomarkers, such as cytokines.
Conclusion : Findings underscore the need for environmental health protocols in healthcare facilities, especially in recovery areas, to mitigate airborne risks. This study highlights air quality as critical to post-operative care for neurodegenerative patients, advocating targeted interventions to protect this population.
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