What are the health effects and who is most at risk from exposure to particle pollution?
• When exposed to particle pollution, people with existing heart or lung diseases-such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart disease, or ischemic heart disease-are at increased risk of premature death or admission to hospitals or emergency rooms. • The elderly also are sensitive to particle pollution exposure. They are at increased risk of admission to hospitals or emergency rooms and premature death from heart or lung diseases. • When exposed to particle pollution, children and people with existing lung disease may not be able to breathe as deeply or vigorously as they normally would, and they may experience symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath. • Particle pollution can increase susceptibility to respiratory infections and can aggravate existing respiratory diseases, such as asthma and chronic bronchitis, causing more use of medication and more doctor visits.
