Particulate (particle pollution)
Particulate matter (also referred to as PM or particle pollution) is a complex mixture of solid and/or liquid particles suspended in air. These particles can vary in size, shape and composition. Smaller particles specifically are of larger concern, as these particles can affect the heart and lungs and in some cases cause serious health effects.
Although the human body may be used to the PM outdoors, indoor Particle pollution may be of more concern to the human body and our health. Indoor PM levels are dependent on several factors including outdoor levels, infiltration, types of ventilation and filtration systems used, indoor sources, and personal activities of occupants. In homes without smoking or other strong particle sources, the indoor PM would be expected to be the same as, or lower than, outdoor levels.
Health Effects of Inhalable Particles
Inhaling these particles can affect both your lungs and your heart. Many studies directly link the size of particles to their potential for causing health problems. Small particles can get deep into your lungs, and some may even get into your bloodstream. People with heart or lung diseases such as coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, and asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), children and older adults may be at greater risk from PM exposure. Scientific studies have linked PM exposure to a variety of health impacts, including:
- Eye, nose and throat irritation;
- Aggravation of coronary and respiratory disease symptoms; and
- Premature death in people with heart or lung disease.
Where do indoor particles originate from?
Particulate matter found indoors will include both particles of outdoor origin that migrate indoors and particles that originate from indoor sources. Indoor PM can be generated through cooking and combustion activities such as burning of cigarettes, candles, use of fireplaces, and the use of unvented space heaters or kerosene heaters.
