Indoor Air Pollution

Indoor Air Quality People spend up to 90% of their time indoors Indoor air has a higher concentration of gases and particles compared to outdoor air typically due to inadequate ventilation combined with high temperature and humidity

Causes of Indoor Air Pollution Anything that release gases or particles into the air The less ventilation homes/buildings have, the worse their Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

Sources of Indoor Pollutants Pesticides (carried in on shoes, clothes) Radon (Rn) Respirable Particles Secondhand Smoke/ Environmental Tobacco Smoke Stoves, Heaters, Fireplaces, and Chimneys Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Asbestos Biological Pollutants Carbon Monoxide (CO) Formaldehyde/Pressed Wood Products Lead (Pb) Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)

Indoor Air Pollution and Health Health effects from indoor air pollutants may be experienced soon after exposure These include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue Other health effects may show up either years after exposure has occurred or only after long or repeated periods of exposure respiratory diseases, heart disease, and cancer, can be severely debilitating or fatal

Mesothelioma Rare form of cancer of the lining of the lungs only associated with Asbestos exposure

Improve your Air Controlling the sources of pollution: Ventilating Increasing the amount of fresh air brought indoors helps reduce pollutants inside. Always ventilate and follow manufacturers’ instructions when you use products or appliances that may release pollutants into the indoor air. Changing filters regularly Central heaters and air conditioners have filters to trap dust and other pollutants in the air. Adjusting humidity The humidity inside can affect the concentrations of some indoor air pollutants. For example, high humidity keeps the air moist and increases the likelihood of mold.

Simple Steps Don’t smoke inside ( or at all, really) Open windows- even for just a few minutes Have houseplants Photosynthesis helps to remove pollutants Dust and vacuum regularly Brush and wash pets Fix leaky pipes and clean sources of mold