These particles penetrate deeply into the lungs and are captured by lung tissue. The most dangerous aspect of PM pollution from diesel vehicles is the hundreds of different chemicals that are adsorbed to the particle. Exposure to PM pollution has been associated with respiratory and cardiac problems, infections, asthma attacks, lung cancer and decreased life expectancy. The World Health Organization has estimated that 500,000 premature deaths each year may be associated with PM pollution. Hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides are primarily produced by motor vehicles and various industrial practices.
Ozone is a highly reactive oxidizing agent that breaks-down organic materials.
Ozone is the primary component of smog, which has plagued Los Angeles for many years. The result is a serious smog problem in the valleys and basins of Southern California. As populations grow, ozone and smog are becoming problems for large cities throughout the country. Symptoms of ozone exposure are coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, fatigue, throat dryness, chest pain, headache and nausea. Ozone has been shown to cause inflammation of lung tissue and reduced lung capacity.