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Particulate Matter (PM) and Allergens

Did you know… The number one allergen is dust mite.  23-30% of all Americans are allergic and 90% of those with allergies are allergic.  

Did you know… Particulate matter is a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air. Some particles, such as dust, dirt, soot, or smoke, are large or dark enough to be seen with the naked eye. Others are so small they can only be detected using an electron microscope.

Did you know… These particles come in many sizes and shapes and can be made up of hundreds of different chemicals.  Particle pollution includes:

  • PM10 : inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 10 micrometers and smaller; and
  • PM2.5 : fine inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 2.5 micrometers and smaller. How small is 2.5 micrometers? Think about a single hair from your head. The average human hair is about 70 micrometers in diameter – making it 30 times larger than the largest fine particle.

Did you know…Particulate matter contains microscopic sol ds or liquid droplets that are so small that they can be inhaled and cause serious health problems. Particles less than 10 micrometers in diameter pose the greatest problems, because they can get deep into your lungs, and some may even get into your bloodstream. 

Indoor air particulate matter that comes from both the outdoor air and the activities in the home.   Outdoor sources can include, but not limited to, pollens, mold spores, and dirt.   Indoor sources can include, but not limited to, molds, pet dander, dust mites, and dust.  Many of these substances are allergens.     

Did you know…The word allergy is defined in medical dictionaries as “a hypersensitive state”

Did you know…The leading cause of non-atopic allergies in adults and children is overexposure according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

Did you know…An allergen or sensitizer is capable at very small concentrations of inducing excessive immune responses in a genetically predisposed individual. Allergy is in this way a heritable trait. Not everyone has the genetic predisposition toward the development of allergy antibody immune responses to sensitizing agents, or allergens.

Did you know…A survey conducted by the National Survey of Lead and Allergens in Housing (NSLAH) found that exposure to multiple allergens was common in US homes. Of the surveyed homes, 51.5% had at least six detectable allergens and 45.8% had at least 3 allergens exceeding increased levels. The conclusion of the study found that increased allergen levels in the home are associated with asthma symptoms in allergic individuals.

Did you know…Allergies account for a significant amount of missed days of work and school and has tremendous impacts on the quality of life.  

Did you know…Indoor Allergens can be managed through indoor air improvement programs.