Compare and contrast pollutants in indoor and outdoor air, including their effects on human health.

Answer 1

Most people typically think of outdoor pollutants when it comes to what is affecting their health. They may think about smog or contaminants in drinking water. They may even think about lead or pesticides in the soil. While all of these things are serious pollutants to consider, it is indoor pollutants that have an even greater impact on an individuals health. According to the EPA, however, the "levels of indoor air pollutants are often 2 to 5 times higher than outdoor levels, and in some cases these levels can exceed 100 times that of outdoor levels of the same pollutants." Some of the most common indoor air pollutants include: asbestos, lead, carbon monoxide, radon and biological pollutants such as dust mites, bacteria and pet dander. While respiratory and cardiac issues are the most common problems that arise from outdoor pollutants; indoor pollutants cause many problems that go unchecked for years as the individual may not realize that their symptoms are stemming from indoor pollutants. These symptoms may include headaches, allergies, skin rashes, dizziness, lethargy and more.