Understanding Air Pollutants and Their Effects on Human Health

ATMOTECH Inc., the developers of the new, exciting ATMOCUBE Indoor Air Quality monitor just published a very informative article which simply explains the different air pollutants, and their effects on our health.  Air pollution is a major environmental problem affecting the health of millions of people worldwide. It is caused by various pollutants released into the air from different sources, including industry, transportation, and household activities. Below we will discuss the different types of air pollutants and their effects on human health.
                                                                       Types of Air Pollutants
According to the World Health Organization, there are many different types of air pollutants, including particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulphur oxides (SOx), carbon monoxide (CO), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and ozone (O3).

• Particulate matter (PM) consists of tiny particles that can be inhaled and penetrate deep into the lungs, causing respiratory problems. PM is the most dangerous air pollutant, as it can cause severe respiratory problems, lung damage, and cancer.
• Gases like nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide can cause respiratory problems, including asthma, bronchitis, and lung cancer. They also contribute to the formation of acid rain, which can harm vegetation and aquatic life, and damage buildings and other infrastructure.
• CO is a colourless, odourless gas that can be fatal in high concentrations. Excessive levels can reduce the amount of oxygen in the blood, leading to headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Long-term exposure to CO can cause heart disease, especially in people with pre-existing health conditions.
• VOCs are chemicals released from cleaning supplies, solvents, and paints. They can cause respiratory and nervous system problems and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat.
• Ozone (O3) is another dangerous air pollutant that can adversely affect human health and the environment. Prolonged exposure to high ozone levels (10+ppm) can lead to chronic respiratory diseases and premature death. Ozone also harms the environment by damaging crops, forests, and other vegetation. It can reduce the growth and productivity of plants and make them more susceptible to disease and insect infestations.

                                                   Effects of Air Pollutants on Human Health
The effects of air pollutants on human health can be devastating. Long-term exposure to air pollution can decrease lung function and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. A study by Kampa & Castanas “Human health effects of air pollution” has also shown that air pollution can affect the cognitive function of older adults and increase the risk of dementia. Children, older people, and people with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of air pollution.   Based on Kampa & Castanas’s research on the Human health effects of air pollution, here are some of the main effects of air pollutants on human health:

1. Respiratory problems: Air pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulphur oxides (SOx), and ozone (O3) can cause respiratory problems such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and asthma attacks. Prolonged exposure to these pollutants can also lead to chronic respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer.
2.  Cardiovascular problems: Air pollutants can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Exposure to pollutants such as PM and NOx can cause inflammation and damage to blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. 
3. Neurological problems: Air pollutants such as lead and mercury can also affect the nervous system and lead to developmental problems in children and cognitive impairment and memory loss in adults. 
4. Reproductive problems: Air pollutants can also affect reproductive health by increasing the risk of congenital disabilities, premature birth, and miscarriage. 
5. Cancer: Long-term exposure to certain air pollutants, such as benzene and dioxins, has been linked to increased cancer risk.

                                  How do you easily monitor your indoor air quality?
                                      Well, we use the ATMOCUBE IAQ Monitor.
The Atmocube is a  RESET Certified, professional quality IAQ Monitor. Simple to set up, WiFi and Bluetooth enabled, and less than ½ the cost of similar professional grade products. 

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