Why is indoor air quality a health issue?
The EPA studied life span in a number of cities as related to the amount of fine dirt particles in the air. Results indicated significantly shortened life spans in cities with dirtier air. Surprisingly, EPA studies also show that home air is often 6 to 10 times more polluted than outdoor city air. Home air is contaminated by organic and inorganic particles and toxic gases. Organic particles can be mold and mildew spores, dust mite parts and feces, animal dander, fabric dust and tobacco smoke. Inorganic particles include very fine soluble and insoluble dusts generated by industrial processes which are carried everywhere by the wind and find their way into homes. Toxic gases include leaking natural gas and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced by man-made and natural sources. Particle board, new furniture, carpet pad, and new permanent press clothing release formaldehyde, a potent allergy sensitizer and known carcinogen.
