Long-term exposure to PM2.5 is strongly associated with increased risks of incident anxiety and depression.
Depression risks rise even at PM2.5 levels below the current EPA standard, suggesting possible underestimation of safe air quality thresholds.
Black participants exhibit approximately double the risk of anxiety and depression compared to other racial groups, highlighting the role of systemic racism and structural inequities in environmental health outcomes.
Findings underscore the urgent need for targeted public health interventions addressing environmental and social determinants of mental health in vulnerable communities.
