Researchers from the University of Southern California found that children who were exposed to high levels of nitrogen dioxide, which is emitted by diesel engines, in the first year of life gained weight quicker throughout childhood and had a higher Body Mass Index (BMI) at the age of 10.
They said the findings have ‘significant public health relevance for intervention given the large number of children living near roads.
The research, published in the journal Environmental Health, followed 2,318 children in southern California. The children’s height and weight was measured annually over a four-year period and their lifetime exposure to near road air pollution was estimated, including while in the womb or during the first year of life.
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