What health impacts are associated with PM2.5 and PM10 air particulates?

• A. Respiratory and cardiovascular issues
• B. Eye irritation only
• C. Skin rash
• D. No health impact

Answer: (A)

Health effects from PM2.5 and PM10 arise because these particles are small enough to be inhaled deeply into the lungs and, for PM2.5, even enter the bloodstream. PM10 can irritate the airways, causing coughing, wheezing, and aggravated asthma or bronchitis. PM2.5 penetrates deeper into the lungs and can trigger systemic responses, such as inflammation and oxidative stress, which raise the risk of cardiovascular problems like heart attacks, strokes, and hypertension. Short-term exposure can worsen respiratory and heart conditions and increase hospital admissions; long-term exposure is linked to chronic respiratory disease and higher mortality. While eye irritation can occur with particulate matter, the dominant health impacts are on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, and skin rashes are not a typical consequence of PM exposure.