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Human Risks of Air Pollution

The human risks of air pollution are varied and depend on the type of pollutant, the degree of exposure, and the health of the individual. Mostly, these effects manifest themselves in the form of cardiovascular and respiratory risks. These risks may lead to increased use of medication, hospital admissions, or even premature death.

  1. Lead

    • Under the Clean Air Act, the Environmental Protection Agency identifies the six most common air pollutants: sulfur dioxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, lead and particulate matter. The EPA also states the risks each of these pollutants has for human beings. For instance, lead is mainly emitted from motor vehicles, ore and metals processing, waste incinerators and leaded aviation gasoline. Once lead is inhaled, it is distributed throughout the body through the blood, eventually accumulating in the bones. Prolonged lead exposure can adversely affect kidney function, the cardiovascular system, immune system, nervous system, and reproductive and developmental systems.

    Carbon Monoxide and Sulfur Dioxide

    • The major sources of carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide are vehicles, fires, fossil fuel combustion, electricity generation, solvent use, industrial processes, and residential wood combustion. Carbon dioxide affects the ability of the blood to carry oxygen to tissues and to organs like the brain and heart. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations of carbon monoxide can lead to death. According to the EPA, short-term exposure to sulfur dioxide has been linked to increased hospital admissions and visits to emergency departments for respiratory illnesses. Short-term exposure can range from five minutes to 24 hours. Other effects of sulfur dioxide exposure include an increase in asthma symptoms and emphysema.

    Nitrogen Oxide and Ozone

    • The major sources of nitrogen oxide emissions are fertilizer, fires, fossil fuel combustion and industrial processes. Short-term exposure to nitrogen oxide, ranging from 30 minutes to 24 hours, can cause respiratory problems like airway inflammation and asthma. Ozone is created by a chemical reaction between nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds under direct sunlight. Inhaling ozone causes health problems including congestion, chest pain and coughing. It can also lead to the inflammation of the linings of the lungs and cause permanent scarring of lung tissue.

    Particulate Matter

    • Particulate matter is emitted from road dust, fires and industrial processes. The EPA notes a direct correlation between the size of the particles and their potential for causing health problems. Smaller particles are more dangerous because they can penetrate deep into the lungs and even find their way into the bloodstream. These "fine particles" can be found in haze and smoke, while "coarse particles" can be found near dusty industries and roadways. Particulate matter causes irritation of the airways, coughing, deceased lung function, chronic bronchitis, and even premature death in people who already have lung or heart disease.

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