Effects on humans

Introduction

Introduction

• Air pollution can cause health problems
• Some diseases; emphysema, asthma, and cancer
• the American Lung Association estimates that
• we spend $93 billion each year on health costs

Chronic Bronchitis and Asmtha

BRonchitis and Asthma

• when a person’s lungs are constantly irritated by pollutants
• Symptoms: constant coughing; difficult breathing
• Main pollutants are; particulates, oxides, and acids
• Air pollution does NOT cause asthma, but it can worsen it

emphysema & lung cancer

emphysema & Lung Cancer

• Air pollution has been linked to emphysema
• air sacs in the lungs can no longer push air out of the lungs
• lung cancer is linked to air pollution
• Cigarette smoking is the main cause.

Indoor Air Pollution

Indoor Air Pollution

• Air pollution is not limited to the outdoors
• air inside a building can be polluted as well
• in: carpets, building materials, paints, and furniture
• poor air quality - have sick-building syndrome

Radon gas

Radon gas

• invisible
• tasteless
• odorless
• radioactive
• can lead to cancer

Asbestos

asbestos

• Asbestos used to be commonly used in commercial buildings
• Exposure to asbestos in the air is dangerous
• the air can cut and scar the lungs causing the disease; asbestosis