Quantifying the association between PM air pollution and IQ loss in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: A growing body of epidemiologic and toxicologic literature indicates that fine airborne particulate matter (PM) pollution is neurotoxic and threatens children's neurobehavioral development, resulting in reduced cognitive function. Understanding the magnitude of this effect is critical for establishing public health policies that will protect children's health, preserve human capital, and support societal progress.

Objective: To quantify the association between ambient PM air pollution and loss of cognitive function in children, as measured by Intelligence Quotient (IQ) scores, through a systematic literature review and meta-analysis.