Where It Comes From
Vehicle exhaust, power plants, industrial processes, residential wood burning, cooking, and wildfires; some particles also form in the air from gases [1].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing outdoor air near traffic or fires; particles can infiltrate indoors and accumulate during cooking/heating with solid fuels [1][2].
Why It Matters
Triggers asthma and breathing problems; increases risk of heart attack and stroke; long-term exposure raises risks of heart/lung disease and lung cancer [2][3].
Who Is at Risk
Children, older adults, people with heart or lung disease, diabetes, or pregnancy; outdoor workers; communities with high traffic/industrial sources [2][1].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Check the AQI and limit strenuous outdoor activity when high; use a HEPA air cleaner; keep windows closed and seal leaks; use MERV‑13 or better filters; wear a well-fitted N95 during high-smoke or high-PM days; avoid burning and reduce driving [1][2][4].
References
- [1]U.S. EPA. Particulate Matter (PM) Basics. https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution/particulate-matter-pm-basics
- [2]U.S. EPA. Health and Environmental Effects of Particulate Matter (PM). https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution/health-and-environmental-effects-particulate-matter-pm
- [3]IARC. Outdoor Air Pollution a Leading Environmental Cause of Cancer Deaths (Press Release 221); and Monographs Vol. 109, 2015.
- [4]CDC. Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke. https://www.cdc.gov/air/wildfire-smoke/