Particulate matter are tiny particles of air pollution that are characterized by their small size. PM₂.₅ refers to particulate matter particles that are 2.5 microns or smaller, which are 30x smaller than the diameter of a strand of hair. These tiny particles are breathed in and can lodge/penetrate deep within the lungs, causing adverse respiratory effects and other health issues.
Particulate matter are tiny particles of air pollution that are characterized by their small size. PM₂.₅ refers to particulate matter particles that are 2.5 microns or smaller, which are 30x smaller than the diameter of a strand of hair. These tiny particles are breathed in and can lodge/penetrate deep within the lungs, causing adverse respiratory effects and other health issues.
PM₂.₅ can affect the body in different ways, depending on short-term (acute) exposure versus long-term (chronic) exposure. Short-term or acute durations of exposure can irritate the respiratory system, including the throat and lungs, as well as the eyes and nose. It can also cause coughing and shortness of breath. Long-term or chronic exposure can worsen asthma and increase the risk of heart attacks (including an increased likelihood of mortality from heart disease) and is also associated with increased rates of bronchitis and lung cancer.
PM₂.₅ also affects other organ systems, including the brain, immune system, and reproductive system. During pregnancy, PM₂.₅ exposure can cause reproductive effects like preterm labor, low birth weight, and miscarriages. It can also affect the developing fetus by causing harm during brain development, which has been linked to negative learning and behavioral problems like autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities.
People who live close to sources of PM₂.₅ are among those most vulnerable to the health effects caused by PM₂.₅ exposure. This group includes people living near highways or near industrial sources.
Infants and children, as well as pregnant individuals, are also vulnerable given the adverse effects on the reproductive system and brain development.
One way to minimize exposure is to reduce time outdoors on days when air pollution levels are high. Web sources, like AirNow, provide daily reports of air quality across the country. It is recommended that groups with unique vulnerabilities, like those with asthma, children, and the elderly, limit strenuous physical activities outdoors when air quality is poor. Staying indoors with closed windows and air conditioning can reduce exposure to PM₂.₅. We recommend reducing indoor air pollution sources such as candles, wood-burning stoves, and smoke.
