Indoor air pollution

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Indoor air pollution

Indoor air pollution (/ɪnˈdɔːr eər pəˈluːʃən/) refers to the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of air in the indoor environment within a home, building, or an institution or commercial facility.

Etymology

The term "indoor air pollution" is derived from the English words "indoor" (meaning inside a building), "air" (the invisible gaseous substance surrounding the earth), and "pollution" (the presence in or introduction into the environment of a substance which has harmful or poisonous effects).

Related Terms

  • Air Quality Index (AQI): A measure of how clean or polluted the air is.
  • Particulate Matter (PM): A complex mixture of extremely small particles and liquid droplets that get into the air.
  • Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids, VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects.
  • Radon: A naturally occurring radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer.
  • Secondhand Smoke: Also known as environmental tobacco smoke, it is a mixture of two forms of smoke from burning tobacco products.
  • Carbon Monoxide (CO): A colorless, odorless, and poisonous gas.
  • Lead (Pb): A heavy metal that is hazardous to health if inhaled or ingested.
  • Asbestos: A group of six naturally occurring fibrous minerals composed of thin, needle-like fibers.

Health Effects

Exposure to indoor air pollutants can lead to a wide range of health effects, from minor irritations like eye and throat discomfort to serious illnesses like respiratory diseases, heart disease, and cancer. The health effects can be immediate or long-term, and can significantly affect quality of life and productivity.

Prevention and Control

Preventing and controlling indoor air pollution involves improving ventilation, maintaining indoor equipment, using air purifiers, and reducing sources of pollutants. Public health interventions can also play a crucial role in reducing exposure to indoor air pollutants.

External links

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