Particulate Matter Air Pollution
http://www.alaw.org/air_quality/outdoor_air_quality/particulate_matter_air_pollution.html
Why should you be concerned about PM?
The lungs are vulnerable to particles less than 10 microns in diameter (PM10), which can slip past the respiratory system’s natural defenses;
Very tiny Particles (PM2.5) can penetrate deeply into the lungs and do the most harm;
Particulates get trapped in these most sensitive tissues interfere with oxygen uptake;
Toxic and cancer-causing compounds can “hitchhike” into the lungs on these particulates and be directly absorbed.
What are the health effects of PM air pollution?
Coughing, wheezing, and overall decreased lung function in healthy children and adults;
Can trigger asthma attacks and respiratory illnesses;
More than two dozen health studies have linked particulate air pollution with an increase in emergency room visits, hospital admissions and even premature death.
Who does this affect most?
Children are most susceptible to particulates because they have smaller lungs and less mature immune system;
The elderly and those who have heart and lung disease.
Why should you be concerned about PM?
The lungs are vulnerable to particles less than 10 microns in diameter (PM10), which can slip past the respiratory system’s natural defenses;
Very tiny Particles (PM2.5) can penetrate deeply into the lungs and do the most harm;
Particulates get trapped in these most sensitive tissues interfere with oxygen uptake;
Toxic and cancer-causing compounds can “hitchhike” into the lungs on these particulates and be directly absorbed.
What are the health effects of PM air pollution?
Coughing, wheezing, and overall decreased lung function in healthy children and adults;
Can trigger asthma attacks and respiratory illnesses;
More than two dozen health studies have linked particulate air pollution with an increase in emergency room visits, hospital admissions and even premature death.
Who does this affect most?
Children are most susceptible to particulates because they have smaller lungs and less mature immune system;
The elderly and those who have heart and lung disease.
