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Indoor Air Quality News
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The
news media keeps air quality a top of mind social issue by regular reports
on ozone alerts, flu viruses, hazardous mold growths in schools and sick
building syndrome. |
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"Indoor
air pollution is among the top five environmental risks to public
health" (EPA and its Science Advisory Board) |
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Local,
state and federal agencies are actively involved in legislation of air
quality standards. |
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"EPA
studies of human exposure to air pollutants indicate that indoor air
levels of many pollutants may be 2-5 times, and occasionally, more than
100 times higher than outdoor levels. These levels of indoor air
pollutants are of particular concern because it is estimated that most
people spend as much as 90% of their time indoors." (Environmental
Protection Agency Indoor Air Quality Web Page, November 2000) |
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Our
energy-efficient homes trap and recirculate unhealthy indoor air. "By
sealing windows and doors to keep inside air in and outside air out, we've
reduced the air-exchange rates by a factor of two or more in many new
houses" (Richard Corsi, associate professor of civil engineering,
University of Texas and leading expert on IAQ) |
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The
"Prevalence of asthma and asthma-related hospitalizations and deaths
has increased 75% since 1980" ("David Thompson, environmental
program manager, National Safety Council). More people than ever suffer
from allergies, asthma and upper respiratory ailments. The price they pay
for their conditions include lost income, sick days and thousands of
dollars spent every year on drugs and medical bills. |
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Effects
of poor indoor air quality on health (Montana State University Extension
Service in partnership with USDA and EPA):
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Eye
irritant, allergic conjunctivitis |
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Nasal
manifestations (Rhinorrhea, rhinitis, chronic sinusitis) |
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Respiratory
manifestations (shortness of breath, asthma, pneumonia,
Tuberculosis) |
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Oropharyngeal
manifestations (dryness and irritation of the throat) |
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Lung
cancer |
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General
Symptoms (headaches, lethargy, poor concentration) |
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Skin
manifestations (dryness, irritation, rash) |
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A
recent survey shows 82% of homeowners regard the air quality of their home
as "very important". Further, the majority of parents
surveyed would spend their discretionary income to improve their
indoor air quality (survey conducted by Chelsea Group, Ltd., Itasca,
Illinois, July, 18, 2000). |
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