Air quality and health

Key facts

• Air pollution is a major environmental risk to health and is estimated to cause approximately 2 million premature deaths worldwide per year.
• Exposure to air pollutants is largely beyond the control of individuals and requires action by public authorities at the national, regional and even international levels.
• The WHO Air quality guidelines represent the most widely agreed and up-to-date assessment of health effects of air pollution, recommending targets for air quality at which the health risks are significantly reduced.
• By reducing particulate matter (PM₁₀) pollution from 70 to 20 micrograms per cubic metre, we can cut air quality related deaths by around 15%.
• By reducing air pollution levels, we can help countries reduce the global burden of disease from respiratory infections, heart disease, and lung cancer.
• The WHO guidelines provide interim targets for countries that still have very high levels of air pollution to encourage the gradual cutting down of emissions. These interim targets are: a maximum of three days a year with up to 150 micrograms of PM₁₀ per cubic metre (for short term peaks of air pollution), and 70 micrograms per cubic metre for long term exposures to PM₁₀.
• More than half of the burden from air pollution on human health is borne by people in developing countries. In many cities, the average annual levels of PM₁₀(the main source of which is the burning of fossil fuels) exceed 70 micrograms per cubic metre. The guidelines say that, to prevent ill health, those levels should be lower than 20 micrograms per cubic metre.

Background

Air pollution, both indoors and outdoors, is a major environmental health problem affecting everyone in developed and developing countries alike. The 2005 WHO Air quality guidelines (AQGs) are designed to offer global guidance on reducing the health impacts of air pollution. The guidelines first produced in 1987¹ and updated in 1997² had a European scope. The new (2005) guidelines apply worldwide and are based on expert evaluation of current scientific evidence. They recommend revised limits for the concentration of selected air pollutants: particulate matter (PM), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2), applicable across all WHO regions.

Key findings in 2005 Air Quality Guidelines:

• There are serious risks to health from exposure to PM and O3 in many cities of developed and developing countries. It is possible to derive a quantitative relationship between the pollution levels and specific health outcomes (increased mortality or morbidity). This allows invaluable insights into the health improvements that could be expected if air pollution is reduced.
• Even relatively low concentrations of air pollutants have been related to a range of adverse health effects.
• Poor indoor air quality may pose a risk to the health of over half of the world’s population. In homes where biomass fuels and coal are used for cooking and heating, PM levels may be 10–50 times higher than the guideline values.
• Significant reduction of exposure to air pollution can be achieved through lowering the concentrations of several of the most common air pollutants emitted during the combustion of fossil fuels. Such measures will also reduce greenhouse gases and contribute to the mitigation of global warming.

In addition to guideline values, the AQGs give interim targets related to outdoor air pollution, for each air pollutant, aimed at promoting a gradual shift from high to lower concentrations. If these targets were to be achieved, significant reductions in risks for acute and chronic health effects from air pollution can be expected. Progress towards the guideline values, however, should be the ultimate objective.

Particulate matter

Guideline values

PM2.5	PM10
10 μg/m3 annual mean 25 μg/m3 24-hour mean	20 μg/m3 annual mean 50 μg/m3 24-hour mean

The 2005 AQG set for the first time a guideline value for particulate matter (PM). The aim is to achieve the lowest concentrations possible. As no threshold for PM has been identified below which no damage to health is observed, the recommended value should represent an acceptable and achievable objective to minimize health effects in the context of local constraints, capabilities and public health priorities.

Definition and principle sources
PM affects more people than any other pollutant. The major components of PM are sulfate, nitrates, ammonia, sodium chloride, carbon, mineral dust and water. It consists of a complex mixture of solid and liquid particles of organic and inorganic substances suspended in the air. The particles are identified according to their aerodynamic diameter, as either PM₁₀ (particles with an aerodynamic diameter smaller than 10 µm) or PM_2.5 (aerodynamic diameter smaller than 2.5 µm). The latter are more dangerous since, when inhaled, they may reach the peripheral regions of the bronchioles, and interfere with gas exchange inside the lungs.

Health effects
The effects of PM on health occur at levels of exposure currently being experienced by most urban and rural populations in both developed and developing countries. Chronic exposure to particles contributes to the risk of developing cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, as well as of lung cancer. In developing countries, exposure to pollutants from indoor combustion of solid fuels on open fires or traditional stoves increases the risk of acute lower respiratory infections and associated mortality among young children; indoor air pollution from solid fuel use is also a major risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer among adults. The mortality in cities with high levels of pollution exceeds that observed in relatively cleaner cities by 15–20%. Even in the EU, average life expectancy is 8.6 months lower due to exposure to PM_2.5 produced by human activities.

Ozone (O₃)

Guideline values

O3

100 μg/m3 8-hour mean

The previously recommended limit, which was fixed at 120 μg/m³ 8-hour mean, has been reduced to 100 μg/m³ based on recent conclusive associations between daily mortality and ozone levels occurring at ozone concentrations below 120 µg/m³.

Definition and principal sources
Ozone at ground level – not to be confused with the ozone layer in the upper atmosphere – is one of the major constituents of photochemical smog. It is formed by the reaction with sunlight (photochemical reaction) of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NO_x) from vehicle and industry emissions and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by vehicles, solvents and industry. The highest levels of ozone pollution occur during periods of sunny weather.

Health effects
Excessive ozone in the air can have a marked effect on human health. It can cause breathing problems, trigger asthma, reduce lung function and cause lung diseases. In Europe it is currently one of the air pollutants of most concern. Several European studies have reported that the daily mortality rises by 0.3% and that for heart diseases by 0.4 %, per 10 µg/m³ increase in ozone exposure.

Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂)

Guideline values

NO2

40 μg/m3 annual mean 200 μg/m3 1-hour mean

The current WHO guideline value of 40 µg/m³ (annual mean) set to protect the public from the health effects of gaseous NO₂ remains unchanged from the level recommended in the previous AQGs.

Definition and principle sources
As an air pollutant, NO₂ has several correlated activities:

• At short-term concentrations exceeding 200 μg/m³, it is a toxic gas which causes significant inflammation of the airways.
• NO₂ is the main source of nitrate aerosols, which form an important fraction of PM_2.5 and, in the presence of ultraviolet light, of ozone.

The major sources of anthropogenic emissions of NO₂ are combustion processes (heating, power generation, and engines in vehicles and ships).

Health effects
Epidemiological studies have shown that symptoms of bronchitis in asthmatic children increase in association with long-term exposure to NO₂. Reduced lung function growth is also linked to NO₂ at concentrations currently measured (or observed) in cities of Europe and North America.

Sulfur dioxide (SO₂)

Guideline values

SO2

20 μg/m3 24-hour mean 500 μg/m3 10-minute mean

A SO₂ concentration of 500 µg/m³ should not be exceeded over average periods of 10 minutes duration. Studies indicate that a proportion of people with asthma experience changes in pulmonary function and respiratory symptoms after periods of exposure to SO₂ as short as 10 minutes.

The revision of the 24-hour guideline for SO₂ from 125 to 20 μg/m³ is based on the following considerations:

• Health effects are now known to be associated with much lower levels of SO₂ than previously believed.
• A greater degree of protection is needed.
• Although the causality of the effects of low concentrations of SO₂ is still uncertain, reducing SO₂ concentrations is likely to decrease exposure to co-pollutants.

Definition and principal sources
SO₂ is a colourless gas with a sharp odour. It is produced from the burning of fossil fuels (coal and oil) and the smelting of mineral ores that contain sulfur. The main anthropogenic source of SO₂ is the burning of sulfur-containing fossil fuels for domestic heating, power generation and motor vehicles.

Health effects
SO₂ can affect the respiratory system and the functions of the lungs, and causes irritation of the eyes. Inflammation of the respiratory tract causes coughing, mucus secretion, aggravation of asthma and chronic bronchitis and makes people more prone to infections of the respiratory tract. Hospital admissions for cardiac disease and mortality increase on days with higher SO₂ levels. When SO₂ combines with water, it forms sulfuric acid; this is the main component of acid rain which is a cause of deforestation.

WHO will assist the Member States in sharing information on successful approaches, on methods of exposure assessment and monitoring of health impacts of pollution.

3 Ways to Compare Fat Burners to Fat Blockers

1. How Fat Blockers Work

Fat blockers attach to fat in your digestive tract. Fats are normally absorbed through the walls of the intestine into the blood stream, but fat blockers stop this process. Fat blockers attach themselves to fat molecules. Once they have attached, they can no longer be readily absorbed through the walls of the intestines. Fats are then passed out of the digestive system and eliminated. Fat blockers advertise that you can eat the fat you want and still lose weight.

2. Fat Burners Use Stored Fat

There are many fat burners on the market. They are a popular diet supplement said to help burn the fat out of the food that you consume. Stacker and Slimquick are examples of fat burners. They are diet formulas that are designed to aid your body to burn fats better. Fat burners help your body use your stored fat for energy by breaking it down and metabolizing the fat in your body and the fat you take in. Both of these actions can help you lose weight and keep you from gaining more weight.

3. Find the Fat Burner or Fat Blocker That Works for You

Fat burners and fat blockers both have their positive and negative sides. Both can be effective in the battle to lose weight. Using either of these products combined with a changed diet and exercise plan can help you lose weight. They are diet aids. However, there are no miracle diet pills. These diet pills are only meant to be a supplement, and many people find that the fat blockers help them. They feel better and are more likely to change their eating habits. Others have success with fat burners. They lose the weight while increasing their energy level and metabolism. There is no one right method for everyone, so it's important to educate yourself in order to make an informed decision.

DRY SKIN TREATMENT REMEDIES

Dry skin needs special care. You need to strike the perfect balance between cleansing, replacing lost moisture, and exfoliating the skin each day. Here are some DRY SKIN TREATMENT REMEDIES that will help you care for your skin.
Cleanse. The first step is cleansing your skin. You will need to choose two different cleansers- one for your face, one for your body and one for your feet Treat Look for a body wash that is creamy and contains extra moisture. For the face, cleansing milks and moisturizing cleansers work a lot better than harsh soaps. For an extra treat, choose a product that will also help cleanse and soften your feet. Wash your feet and body each time you shower and your face and neck twice a day, in the morning and at night. Exfoliate. Though exfoliating does strip the skin of moisture, getting rid of dead skin cells will make it softer and less dry in the long run. In general, you will want to gently EXFOLIATE your SKIN EVERY DAY. To exfoliate your body, use a dry bath brush (Spa Brush) on your dry skin and brush from the feet upward in a circular motion. Do not use this method to exfoliate your face.
A better DRY SKIN TREATMENT REMEDY for removing the dry skin cells in your face is an extremely gentle, non abrasive exfoliant. Check the package directions but a gently exfoliating ingredient is alpha hydroxy acid, especially when the product only has a low concentration of it.
Tone. A good toner will help replace any moisture lost during cleansing and will restore the proper PH balance. Choose one that contains ingredients that are beneficial to dry skin, such as rosewater. Check the packaging to make sure you can use the product on dry skin. You only need to do this step on your face and neck.
Moisturize. This is one of the most important steps. Cleansing and exfoliating can strip the skin of its natural moisture. A good moisturizer will help replace the natural oils in the skin. Different products in the moisturizer serve different purposes. You can find a moisturizer that will help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, eliminate dryness, and control break-outs. Make sure any product you choose is specifically tailored for dry skin.
To moisturize your body, look for a heavier formula that doesn’t contain as much water. Body butters work especially well. You can also use scented or unscented body oil. The eyes also need a special product because the skin is so delicate, you can’t put a moisturizer with harsh ingredients on it.
Masks. Using a face or body mask is optional, but worth the effort. You can either choose to make your own or purchase a product for dry skin. A good mask will help exfoliate, tone, and moisturize the skin. One of my favorite homemade masks is plain honey, applied to the face and neck. Honey helps exfoliate and is a humectant, which means that it draws moisture to the skin.

Fact you need to know about dieting

According to the ADA there has been a 39 percent increase in obese teenagers. This is due to many factors, although upbringing is a predominant influence. With two obese parents there is an 80 percent chance that a teen will be obese; with one parent, 40 percent; and with lean parents only a 10 percent chance.

Weight management is about long-term work with success that will last a lifetime. People who lose weight quickly by "crash" dieting or other extreme measures usually gain it all back or gain even more of the pounds they lost because they haven't changed their eating habits. The best weight management strategies are those that you can maintain.

Be aware of what you drink
It's amazing how many extra calories are in sodas, juices and other drinks. Cutting out soda completely can save you 360 calories or more each day. Avoid diet soda too, the artificial sweeteners tend to make some people hungry. Drink a lot of water. Switching from whole to nonfat or low-fat milk, soy milk or other sugar-free beverages is also a good idea.

Move your body
You may find that you don't need to give up calories as much as you need to get off your behind. Try a variety of activities, such as hiking, cycling or rowing until you find ones you like. Even the smallest lifestyle changes like walking to school or jogging up and down the stairs a couple of times before your morning shower can really make a difference. Your goal should be to work up to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise at least 3 to 5 times a week, but it's fine to start out by simply taking a few turns around the block before bed.

Start small
Drastic changes are much harder to stick with than small changes. Try reducing the size of the portions you eat and giving up regular soda for a week. Once you have that down, start gradually introducing healthier foods and exercise into your life.

Stop eating when you're full
Lots of teens eat when they're bored, lonely or stressed, or keep eating long after they're full simply out of habit. It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to recognize how much is in your stomach, so if you slow down it will prevent you from eating more than you need. Take a break before refilling your plate for seconds, and avoid eating when you feel upset or bored.

Eat less more often
Many people find that eating a couple of small snacks throughout the day helps them to make healthy choices at meals. Stick a couple of healthy snacks (carrot sticks, a low fat granola bar, pretzels or a piece of fruit) in your backpack so that you can have one or two snacks during the day. Adding healthy snacks to your three squares and eating smaller portions when you sit down to dinner can help you cut calories without feeling deprived.

Five a day keeps the pounds away
Trash the junk food and buy lots of fruits and vegetables!

Avoid fad or prepackaged diets
If we were meant to eat from cans, they'd grow on trees. It's never a good idea to trade meals for shakes or to give up a food group in the hope that you'll lose weight. We all need a variety of foods to stay healthy. Avoid diet pills (even the over-the-counter or herbal variety) unless your doctor prescribes them.

Don't banish certain foods
Don't tell yourself you'll "never" eat your absolute favorite peanut butter chocolate ice cream or a bag of potato chips. Making these foods forbidden is sure to make you want them even more. Besides, you need to have some fat in your diet to stay healthy, so giving up all fatty foods all the time isn't a good idea anyway. The key to long-term success is making healthy choices most of the time. If you want a piece of cake at a party, go for it! But munch on the carrots rather than the chips to balance it out later in the evening.

Forgive yourself
So you were going to have one cracker with cheese on it and the next thing you know, the box is empty? Drink some water, brush your teeth and move on. Everyone who's ever tried to lose weight has found it challenging. When you slip up, the best idea is to get right back on track and don't look back. Avoid telling yourself that you'll get back on track tomorrow or next week or after New Year's. Start now.

Being healthy is really about being at the right weight for you. The best way to find out if you are at a healthy weight or if you need to lose or gain weight is to talk to a health care provider or registered dietitian, an RD. He or she can help you set realistic goals.