The federal government regulates particulate matter of a certain size as one of six major air pollutants for which health-based air quality standards have been set. Smaller particulate matter is a more serious health threat. Your body cannot keep the smaller particles out of your lungs. Once in your body, the tiny particulate matter can cause structural and chemical changes deep in the lungs. These small particles can damage the alveoli and act as carriers for other toxic or carcinogenic materials.
Damage can result in scarring, which reduces the ability of the lung to absorb oxygen.
Chronic diseases such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, cancer, and cardiovascular complications of lung damage have been associated with exposure to fine particles. Death rates in U.S. and European cities have increased during air pollution episodes that included increased levels of fine particles. Local studies have also shown a relationship between levels of particulate matter and lung capacity and hospitalization of asthmatic children. In addition to health effects, particulate matter can cause damage to materials and can cause deposits on land and in water. For more information on these topics, contact Ecology at the telephone number for your area listed below.