Indoor air pollution is a growing health problem, with an estimated 4.3 million deaths attributed to it each year. Exposure to indoor air pollutants can have significant health impacts, ranging from headaches, nausea, and asthma to lung cancer and other respiratory illnesses. The four major indoor air pollutants are particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2).
Particulate matter (PM) is a mixture of solid and liquid particles suspended in the air. It includes dust, pollen, smoke, and other microscopic particles. PM affects the air we breathe, as it can reduce visibility, lower air quality, and increase the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that easily become vapors or gases. They are commonly found in building materials, furniture, paints, cleaning products, and other household items. VOCs can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, and other health problems.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that is a byproduct of combustion processes, such as those in gas stoves, furnaces, and cars. CO pollution can reduce oxygen levels in the blood and lead to symptoms such as dizziness and nausea.
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is a gas produced by burning fuel. It can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, and is linked to an increased risk of respiratory illnesses, such as asthma.
Although all four of these pollutants can be found in indoor air, the levels of each can vary greatly. Controlling indoor air pollution requires a combination of ventilation, source control, and filtration. Ventilation helps to reduce indoor air pollution by bringing in fresh air from outside and allowing pollutants to escape. Source control involves reducing or eliminating the sources of pollutants, such as using low-VOC paints and sealants. Filtration can also help to reduce indoor air pollution, as filters can trap and remove particulate matter and other pollutants.