Diseases Caused by Car Exhaust

Car exhaust contains many harmful chemicals. Although recent environmental regulations have substantially reduced exhaust in new cars, the exhaust that exists, especially if inhaled for any length of time, still contains serious harmful chemicals. Among the most harmful are benzine, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Among other things, the many chemicals found in car exhaust can cause or aggravate heart problems, interfere with the production and maturation of blood cells, cause chronic bronchitis or, in large doses, death. Most of all, these chemicals have a negative effect on the bronchial system and are especially hard on the respiratory system of children.

Benzene

• One of the most harmful chemicals in car exhaust, benzene can cause leukemia and lymphoma. It can suppress bone marrow, harming the ability of the body to produce blood cells. It also harms the ability of blood cells to mature.

PAHs

• These hydrocarbons are also contained in car exhaust. This set of chemicals can harm respiratory function, especially in children. Patients with asthma will see an increase in symptoms. In large amounts, PAHs can cause cancer and interfere with the proper function of the reproductive organs in both men and women.

Sulfur Dioxide

• This chemical can aggravate asthma symptoms and, in serious cases, can cause severe bronchial blocking and swelling. It aggravates heart disease and can cause circulation problems.

Nitrogen Dioxide

• This chemical has potentially serious effects on the lungs, leading to damage if inhaled over time. It can cause chronic bronchitis. For children especially, it can cause serious and chronic respiratory disease.

Carbon Monoxide

• As is well known, this chemical can interfere with the body's ability to absorb oxygen into the bloodstream. If inhaled in high doses, it can lead to suffocation. Anything less than a fatal amount will cause dizziness, fatigue, nausea and flu-like symptoms. In lower doses, it can cause chronic fatigue and heart problems. It can also reduce brain function if inhaled over a long period of time in small doses.