Environmental Science Chapter 6 Notes #2

Air Pollution – Effects on Human Health Chronic Bronchitis –Persistent inflammation of bronchial linings –Constant couching weakens the bronchial tubes making breathing difficult –Particulates, oxides, and acids (sulfur and nitrogen) are the main culprits Asthma –Not caused b pollution, pollution makes it worse –Bronchial passages are blocked or constricted

Air Pollution – Effects on Human Health Emphysema –When the air sacs in the lungs lose elasticity and can no longer push out air Lung Cancer –Mostly caused by cigarettes –Auto exhaust and particulates (asbestos, arsenic, nickel, chromium, beryllium) also contribute

Air Pollution – Effects on Human Health Indoor Air Pollution –From materials inside the bldg Paint, carpet, plastics, etc. –Sick Building Syndrome Buildings with particularly poor air quality The worst in tight buildings

Air Pollution – Effects on Human Health Types of Indoor Air Pollution –Radon Invisible, tasteless, odorless Radioactive Produced naturally by the earth Comes into the home, attaches to dust Can lead to cancer in the lungs

Air Pollution – Effects on Human Health Types of Indoor Air Pollution –Asbestos Different fibers that contain silica Very strong and resistant to heat The fibers cut and scar lung tissue