Who is at risk from particulate matter exposure?
Sensitive groups such as older adults, individuals with diseases such as asthma or congestive heart disease, and children are more likely to be affected by PM2.5 exposure. Healthy children and adults have not been reported to suffer serious effects from short-term exposures, although they may experience temporary minor irritation when particle levels are elevated. People with heart and lung diseases are at increased risk because particles can aggravate these diseases. Older adults are at increased risk because they may have undiagnosed lung or heart disease. Children are at increased risk because they are still developing and spend more time at high activity levels. Long-term exposure to particulate matter by children may interfere with developing respiratory systems, putting them at risk for reduced lung function and other respiratory conditions later in life. People with diabetes may also be at increased risk because they are more likely to have underlying cardiovascular disease.
