Indoor PM2.5: The Silent Threat to Everyday Health

Did you know that indoor air – which we often consider safe – can harbor PM2.5 particles that are more dangerous than outdoor pollution? PM2.5 (Particulate Matter 2.5) refers to microscopic particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers, about 1/30th the diameter of a human hair. These particles don’t just irritate your breathing—they are a “silent killer,” directly affecting your health and causing severe illnesses over time.

Where does indoor PM2.5 come from?

Indoor PM2.5 can originate from various sources that often go unnoticed:

• Cooking smoke: Particularly from frying or using wood or charcoal stoves.
• Candles and incense: These release fine smoke particles into the air.
• Cigarette smoke: One of the most harmful sources, especially for children and the elderly.
• Outdoor pollution infiltrating indoors: Through windows, doors, and ventilation systems.
• Unvented combustion appliances: Such as heaters or fireplaces.

In confined indoor spaces with poor ventilation, PM2.5 levels can build up quickly, putting your health at risk.

How does PM2.5 harm your health?

PM2.5 is dangerous due to its microscopic size. It can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, leading to numerous long-term health effects:

• Respiratory diseases:
  PM2.5 triggers respiratory infections and worsens conditions like asthma, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, and even lung cancer. Children are particularly vulnerable, with studies showing a 20-30% increase in asthma symptoms after exposure to high PM2.5 levels.
• Cardiovascular issues:
  Long-term exposure to PM2.5 raises the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure. These particles inflame blood vessels and increase clotting risks—major causes of fatal cardiovascular events.
• Neurological effects:
  PM2.5 can infiltrate the brain via the bloodstream, damaging neurons and increasing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline.
• Weakened immunity:
  Continuous exposure to PM2.5 reduces immune defense, making you more susceptible to infections like flu, throat infections, and bacterial diseases.

Pregnant women exposed to PM2.5 face higher risks of preterm births and low birth weight in babies, leading to long-term developmental challenges for children.

Who is most at risk?

Vulnerable groups include:

• Children, whose respiratory systems are still developing.
• The elderly, due to weaker immunity.
• Pregnant women and unborn babies.
• Individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart diseases.

How can you reduce the impact of PM2.5?

1. Use high-quality air purifiers: Advanced HyperHEPA filtration technology of IQAir eliminates up to 99.97% of PM2.5, providing clean air.
2. Ensure proper ventilation: Allow fresh air circulation to prevent particle buildup.
3. Control sources of pollution: Limit candles, incense, and smoking indoors.
4. Monitor air quality: Use air quality monitoring devices - AirVisual Pro to stay informed about pollution levels and air quality.
5. Invest in cutting-edge filtration technology from IQAir: As a global leader in air purification, IQAir offers state-of-the-art solutions to effectively eliminate harmful particles and ensure a safe living environment.

PM2.5 is not just an air quality issue—it’s a health crisis. Take action today to protect your family from this "silent killer"!

Source: The National Center for Biotechnology Information