What are the Long-Term Effects of Prenatal Air Pollution Exposure? Evidence from the BHPS

The detrimental impacts of air pollution on human health are significant. Pollution increases mortality in the elderly and reduces worker productivity. While a consensus is beginning to emerge on the contemporaneous effects of air pollution, the long-term effects are still largely unknown. By combining restricted data from a comprehensive national survey with historical pollution data, I plausibly isolate the impact of prenatal particulate matter exposure on adult outcomes. I find that those with higher levels of prenatal exposure during the second trimester of gestation are more likely to be disabled, earn lower wages, and have worse health.