Ground level ozone is formed by a chemical reaction between volatile organic compounds and oxides of nitrogen in the presence of sunlight. According to Schaefer, sources of ground level ozone include auto, boat engine and lawnmower exhausts, industrial emissions and vapors released by some household products. From May through September, when the weather is hot and sunny with little or no wind, ozone levels can become unhealthy. High concentrations of ground level ozone can cause respiratory inflammation and distress, worsen asthma and increase susceptibility to lung infections. Its unhealthy effects can continue for days after exposure to high levels.
Ozone is a major component of urban smog.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has designated the Baltimore-Washington area as having particularly poor air quality, in part because of ground level ozone. On Ozone Action Days, to keep from raising ozone levels higher, Endzone recommends limiting your driving by using public transportation, not mowing the grass with a gas-powered mower, refueling autos only after dark, avoiding excess engine idling and postponing the use of household products, such as paints, cleaners and hair sprays, that release fumes or evaporate easily. The Hopkins Endzone representative will have a booth at the June 11 Health Fair on the Homewood campus. The ulcers, painful and often an impediment to eating, could contribute to malnutrition and wasting, said Albert Wu, associate professor of health policy and management in the School of Public Health. Wu co-authored the study.