We all know that a healthy diet, moderate level of physical activity, normal body weight range, not smoking, and low drug/alcohol intake are lifestyle choices that, according to the literature, should result in significant benefits of reducing occurrences of various illnesses and risk of premature death through stronger immune and cardiac systems.

However, a person adhering to such healthy lifestyles but with regular exposure to toxic air pollutants at high concentrations or low concentrations but for extended periods has a risk of losing these protections and exhibit higher incidents of premature death or illness. For example, the literature shows that certain compounds that enter our bodies can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the immune system, and we can be exposed to many of these compounds through the air we breathe. These adverse effects can occur even if one adheres to the other healthy lifestyles discussed.

An increase in mortality and hospital admission rates and sick building syndrome (SBS) correlates strongly with exposure to airborne particulate matter, ozone, certain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other identified toxic air pollutants. Public exposure to these compounds can occur from indoor and from outdoor sources. Given that people spend the majority of their time indoors, indoor levels of toxic air pollutants must be a growing concern.

Yet, we can’t not breathe, right? In the U.S., we have a network of thousands of monitors that tell us the levels of certain pollutants throughout the nation, and we have decades-worth of data. Therefore, a person can choose to move to a “cleaner air” area. However, even if a person moves to such an area, he/she is still at risk for two reasons. First, in some cases even a single exposure of a key air toxic (carcinogen) could, theoretically, cause cancer in that person. Second, even if an area is in attainment of national ambient air quality standards, a micro area, such as a street on which many cars and trucks travel and emit gasoline byproducts or an indoor area both away from a monitor, can provide the source of air toxics to cause adverse health effects.

So while we all made New Years and new decades resolutions to undertake healthier life style choices (and hopefully keeping them, several weeks into the New Year), don’t forget to keep in mind air quality. Take the time to consider potential exposure of you and your family and friends to air toxics that can negate these good lifestyle choices. What can you do? Consider minimize walking or spending time in areas of high automobile or truck usage or endeavor to live and work in indoor areas that are well ventilated and use water-based coatings and cleaners with less toxic compounds.

Have a happy and healthy 2020 and beyond.

CCES has the experts to assess the potential sources of air pollution in your neighborhood or indoor air environment and help you develop a plan to make your spaces cleaner and better for you. Contact us today at karell@CCESworld.com or at 914-584-6720.