ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTANTS

Environmental pollutants are a significant risk factor for lung health, as they can cause both immediate and long-term damage to the respiratory system. Exposure to various pollutants can lead to or worsen lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and even lung cancer.

POLLUTANTS

Particulate Matter (PM)

Description: Tiny particles suspended in the air, including dust, soot, smoke, and liquid droplets.
Sources: Vehicle emissions, industrial processes, construction activities, wildfires, and burning of fossil fuels.
Health Effects: Particulate matter (especially PM2.5 and PM10) can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing inflammation, respiratory infections, exacerbation of asthma, and reduced lung function. Long-term exposure is linked to lung cancer and COPD.

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂)

Description: A toxic gas that forms from burning fuel, especially in cars, trucks, and power plants.
Sources: Vehicle emissions, power plants, industrial processes, and the combustion of fossil fuels.
Health Effects: NO₂ inflames the airways, aggravates asthma, reduces lung function, and increases the risk of respiratory infections. Prolonged exposure is linked to chronic respiratory diseases like COPD.

Ground-Level Ozone (O₃)

Description: A harmful gas formed when pollutants (like nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds) from vehicles, factories, and chemical solvents react with sunlight.
Sources: Motor vehicles, industrial emissions, and chemical solvents.
Health Effects: Ozone irritates the respiratory system, causing coughing, throat irritation, and worsening of asthma and other lung diseases. Long-term exposure can lead to decreased lung function and lung tissue damage.

Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂)

Description: A colorless gas with a pungent smell, produced by the burning of sulfur-containing fuels like coal and oil.
Sources: Coal-burning power plants, industrial facilities, and motor vehicles.
Health Effects: SO₂ can cause short-term breathing difficulties, throat irritation, and aggravation of asthma symptoms. It can also lead to long-term damage, including lung inflammation and reduced lung function.

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Description: A colorless, odorless gas that interferes with the body's ability to transport oxygen.
Sources: Vehicle emissions, combustion of fossil fuels, indoor heating appliances (like gas stoves), and cigarette smoke.
Health Effects: High exposure can lead to dizziness, headaches, confusion, and even death. Chronic exposure affects lung function and exacerbates respiratory diseases like COPD.

Heavy Metals (e.g., Lead, Cadmium, Mercury)

Description: Toxic metals that can be present in the air, soil, or water, often due to industrial emissions.
Sources: Industrial pollution, metal smelting, and fossil fuel combustion.
Health Effects: Inhalation of heavy metals, particularly lead and cadmium, can impair lung function, increase the risk of lung infections, and contribute to the development of lung cancer and COPD.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTANTS

POLLUTANTS

Particulate Matter (PM)​

Particulate Matter (PM)