Roman-Era Lead Pollution Linked to Decline in European IQ

Research from the Desert Research Institute (DRI) indicates that lead pollution during the Roman era may have reduced European IQ by 2 to 3 points, SciTech Daily reported yesterday.

Analyzing Arctic ice core records, scientists traced historical atmospheric lead pollution from 500 BC to 600 AD, correlating it with cognitive decline.

The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, highlights mining and smelting as key sources of pollution during the rise and fall of the Roman Empire. Advanced modeling revealed atmospheric lead levels across Europe, linking lead exposure to detrimental effects on cognitive development, particularly in children.

Lead pollution peaked during the late 2nd century BC and persisted until the Antonine Plague (165-180 AD), with over 500 kilotons released during the Empire’s height. While modern lead pollution has declined significantly since the 1970s, the findings underscore a long history of industrial activity impacting human health.