Breathing ozone and particulate matter also intensifies allergies and may increase the chances of developing new ones. In the case of asthma, ozone not only exacerbates existing conditions but also triggers them. The Centers for Disease Control reports that asthma rates for all Americans jumped by 75 percent in one 15-year period, affecting 15 million Americans. For children, the statistics are even worse. Children under 5, for example, suffered a 160 percent increase in asthma rates, and for children under 17, asthma is now the most prevalent chronic disorder.
Children face greater risk since pound for pound, children breathe more air than adults.
Prolonged exposure to ozone could permanently damage their still developing respiratory systems. Even healthy adults who work or exercise vigorously outdoors may develop chronic respiratory illnesses or structural lung damage with long-term exposures. Drive less and combine trips. Avoid jack-rabbit starts and excessive idling. Make sure that your engine and emissions control equipment are inspected annually.