Health Effects of Indoor Air Pollution

The Health Effects of Indoor Air Pollution topic includes research on health effects of indoor exposure to chemicals, particulates, and other pollutants carried by air, dust, or manmade items. Research on causes, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of harmful exposure due to indoor air pollution is included.

Many factors contribute to poor indoor air quality. Indoor air includes pollutants that penetrate from the outdoors, as well as sources that are unique to the indoor environment. Indoor sources of pollution include human activities, such as smoking, burning solid fuels, cooking, and cleaning; vapors from building and construction materials, equipment, and furniture; and biological contaminants, such as mold, viruses, or allergens. Both short- and long-term exposure to indoor air pollution can cause a range of health issues, including respiratory diseases, heart disease, cognitive deficits, and cancer.