CIEH responds to new study linking air pollution to postnatal depression

The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) has expressed its concern over the findings of a new study that suggests exposure to air pollution before and after childbirth increases the risk of postnatal depression.

The study analysed data from more than 300,000 women in California who gave birth between January 2008 and December 2016.

The study found an increased risks for postnatal depression to be associated with exposure to PM_2.5 before and after birth. For trimester-specific exposures, the researchers found that first-trimester PM_2.5 black carbon and second trimester PM_2.5 nitrate and ammonium exposures were associated with an increased risk of postnatal depression and for long-term exposures during pregnancy and postpartum periods, PM_2.5 organic matter and black carbon were the main components associated with postnatal depression.

The researchers conclude that these findings suggest that air pollution exposure is a potentially modifiable environmental risk factor for postnatal depression and therefore an essential public health issue to address for improved maternal mental health.

Mental health is a public health issue that affects millions of people in the UK and around the world. Poor air quality can have a negative impact on mental health, as well as physical health, and this study highlights the need for urgent action to reduce air pollution and protect the wellbeing of mothers and babies.

Louise Hosking, Executive Director of Environmental Health at CIEH, said:

"This study adds to the growing evidence of the harmful effects of air pollution on our health and wellbeing. Postnatal depression is a serious condition that affects many women and their families, and it can have lasting consequences for their physical and mental health. It is unacceptable that women are exposed to such high levels of air pollution that may increase their risk of developing this condition.

We urge the Government to take urgent action to improve air quality across the UK and protect the health of mothers and babies. This includes setting ambitious and legally binding targets for reducing air pollution, investing in sustainable transport and green infrastructure, and supporting local authorities to monitor and enforce air quality standards with increased funding and capacity.

At CIEH, our vision is to create safer, cleaner, healthier environments for all. We believe that everyone has the right to breathe clean air and enjoy a healthy environment. We also believe that mental health is an integral part of environmental health, and we will continue to work with our members, partners and stakeholders to advocate for better policies and practices that support both."