Air Pollution and Your Health
Particulate matter contains microscopic solids or liquid droplets that are so small that they can be inhaled and cause serious health problems. Some particles less than 10 micrometers in diameter can get deep into your lungs and some may even get into your bloodstream. Of these, particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter, also known as fine particles or PM2.5, pose the greatest risk to health.
Fine particles are also the main cause of reduced visibility (haze) in parts of the United States, including our public lands – national parks, national forests and wilderness areas.
These particles come in many sizes and shapes and can be made up of hundreds of different chemicals.
Some are emitted directly from a source, such as construction sites, unpaved roads, fields, smokestacks or fires.
Most particles form in the atmosphere as a result of complex chemical reactions, such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which are pollutants emitted from power plants, industries and automobiles.
US EPA Particulate Matter Basics [link- https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution/particulate-matter-pm-basics#effects]
The size of particles is directly linked to their potential for causing health problems. Small particles less than 10 micrometers in diameter pose the greatest problems, because they can get deep into your lungs, and some may even get into your bloodstream.
Exposure to such particles can affect both your lungs and your heart. Numerous scientific studies have linked particle pollution exposure to a variety of problems, including:
- premature death in people with heart or lung disease
- nonfatal heart attacks
- irregular heartbeat
- aggravated asthma
- decreased lung function
- increased respiratory symptoms, such as irritation of the airways, coughing or difficulty breathing.
Who is Most Affected by Particle Pollution?
People with heart or lung diseases, children, older adults, minority populations, and those with low socioeconomic status are the most likely to be affected by particle pollution exposure, either because they are more sensitive or may have higher exposures.