When people think of air quality, their first thought is usually outdoor air. But did you know that indoor air quality can impact your health just as much, if not more?
In recent years, the Environmental Protection Agency and its Science Advisory Board have consistently ranked indoor air pollution among the top five environmental risks to public health. According to EPA studies, levels of indoor pollutants can be two to five times—and occasionally more than 100 times—higher than outdoor levels. Considering that most people spend around 90 percent of their time indoors, it’s prudent to try to improve our indoor air quality.
Exposure to indoor pollutants can trigger allergic reactions, worsen asthma symptoms, spread infectious illnesses like influenza, and even be fatal in some cases. Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing breathing problems are particularly susceptible to these conditions.
Below are some ways to manage common indoor air pollutants.
