An enemy to your respiratory health lurks all around you. It is invisible to the naked eye. You may or may not be able to detect it. Yet, it can have profound impacts on your lungs and cancer risk.
It is PM2.5 or particulate matter 2.5 micrometers and smaller. Its size makes it especially harmful since it can enter the deep structures within your lungs, posing the greatest health risks.
Impacts of Particulate Matter
Many sources contribute to air quality and particulate matter pollution. Innocuous sources like fireplaces or recreational fires can release minute particles into the air you breathe. Dust, road debris, factory pollution and exhaust from gas-burning vehicles also add to the mix.
The good news is that PM2.5 levels have dropped since 1990, causing more than 40 percent fewer deaths. Nitrogen oxide emissions have also plummeted 65 percent.
However, the risk still exists for many individuals with respiratory issues. Any pre existing conditions, such as asthma, for example, can be severely aggravated with devastating results when PM2.5 levels are too high. It can also increase the chances of lung cancer developing in otherwise healthy people. Scientists estimate that poor air quality is the cause of 5 percent of global mortality rate.
Evidence also suggests it can affect Covid-19 health outcomes and a greater rate of COPD.
Improving Air Quality
While you can’t control outdoor air pollution, you can take charge of your indoor air quality (IAQ). That can reduce your exposure to PM2.5 and other pollutants that will benefit everyone inside the space.
Letting Fresh Air in
As long as PM2.5 levels aren’t high outside, you can improve your IAQ by opening windows. That will reduce the concentration of harmful particulate matter and gases indoors. Of course, air flow and travel as well as positioning and number of people using and moving through the space all have an impact on how much the quality of air can be improved by opening windows. In the wake of COVID-19, the question facing many, is how to ensure enough good clean air is flowing in and around the space from outside. This problem presents itself in areas where outdoor pollution is high, in winter months when it isn’t always feasible to let cold air in and in spaces where there are too few or no windows.
Going to the Source
The best place to start is with the sources. Making your space smoke-free is an obvious first step. However, that also applies to wood-burning fireplaces, kerosene heaters and candles. They all can contribute to poor IAQ and reduced lung function, too.
Other sources include volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from air fresheners, cleaning products, hobby supplies, and wood preservatives.
Reducing the amount of people congregating in any one space at any one time and organising one way systems is a good way to help reduce the spread of viruses and diseases.
Eliminating the Pollutants
The next task is to control what’s already in your space, starting with your HVAC system. Upgrading your air filter with one with a higher Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) can help it perform more efficiently.
It’s imperative to replace your air filter regularly to enjoy the benefits of clean air and reduce the strain on your HVAC system.
A HEPA filter is an excellent addition. These devices can eliminate particulate matter down to 0.3 microns. That’s especially crucial if you have a pre-existing respiratory system.
You’ll find products that will tackle the particulate matter, gases, or both. Either pollutant type can affect your health. It’s imperative to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance and filter replacement.
A UVC light is an effective way to handle the pathogen front. It has a long history of use for this purpose. Evidence even proves that it eradicates the SARS-CoV-2 virus. There are many things to consider when choosing the right UVC light product for your space. Before purchasing, it is extremely important to do your research and make sure the manufacturer has science based evidence to support the efficiency and safety of their product. UVC can be very dangerous and must be treated with caution. The air must be exposed to the UVC light for a enough time to ensure it works properly. Some UVC products emit ozone can damage the lung function. Relatively low amounts can cause coughing, pain, shortness of breath and irritation. Ozone may also compromise the ability of the body to fight respiratory infections and worsen chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD.
Final Thoughts
We’ve come a long way in improving indoor air quality. However, challenges still exist. Good respiratory health means taking charge of the things you can change. Increasing the IAQ of your space is an excellent way to begin.
