Risk from fine-particle pollution greater than previously thought
San Francisco Chronicle, May 23, 2008
According to a California Air Resourced Board analysis of 60 previously conducted studies, air pollutants from trucks, cars, power plants and wood burning pose much more serious health problems than previously estimated.
In their analysis of air quality studies conducted around the world, which included reports from the World Health Organization and American Cancer Society, researchers found that the risk factor for fine–particle pollution is 70 percent higher than previously estimated. They also estimated that premature deaths caused by fine-particle pollution were 2 to 3 times higher than previously thought.
Fine-particle pollution are extremely dangerous because the microscopic particles can penetrate deeply into the lungs. There, the particles can cross inflame surrounding tissue and enter into the blood stream. Even small increases in the fine particles can have a strong and immediate effect on children, the elderly and people with chronic diseases. The researchers found a direct correlation between increases in fine-particle pollution and higher hospitalizations, emergency room visits and missed school days.
While fine-particle pollution has long been known to have health risks, this latest analysis underscores the continued danger posed by air pollution. While California has seen fine-paritlce pollution drops over the past few decades, it faces a renewed threat as fires continue to rage across the state and at transit hubs like the Port of Oakland.
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