lung and airway disorders
Air Pollution–Related Illness
Prevention of Air Pollution–Related Illness
Air pollution is a leading cause of death worldwide. Preventing or reducing exposure to outdoor air pollutants is central to reducing both the acute and chronic risk of air pollution–related illness. The levels of pollutants in the air vary based on location and environmental conditions. For example, ozone tends to remain in the air on hot sunny days, particularly in the afternoon and early evening. The Air Quality Index is used by the federal government to communicate how polluted the air is in a particular location at a given point in time. People, especially those with heart or lung disorders, can use the Air Quality Index to guide their choice of outdoor activities on days when pollution levels are high (Air Quality Index (AQI) | AirNow.gov). Examples of risk modification include reducing strenuous outdoor exercise and/or staying indoors in spaces with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration systems on days when air quality is poor. Reducing exposure to indoor sources, such as smoking and cooking, and optimizing ventilation are also recommended. 