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What are the hazards and precautions for fine dust?[Seoul University Hospital Gangnam Center]
What are the hazards
and precautions for fine dust?
Fine dust is a suspended matter in the atmosphere with various complex components. Most of them occur in automobile exhaust gas and dust generated in road driving process. The particle size and chemical composition of the fine dust determines the effects to the health. Exposure to fine dust is related with the development of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases and also has been reported to increase mortality. Particularly, dust particles smaller than 10 micrometers in size are a big threat, as they can enter the lungs and blood.
Particles smaller than 10 micrometers in diameter and larger than 2.5 micrometers are referred to as fine dust particles, and are mainly found on roadsides and industrial complexes. Particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter are called ultrafine dust particles and are produced when cigarettes or fuels are burned. The components of the particles play an important role in the toxicity of the human body, mainly composed of combustion particles such as carbon, organic hydrocarbons, nitrates, sulfates and harmful metals.
1. Prevention is the best, but if you are inevitably exposed and symptoms occur, you should visit the hospital immediately and have it checked early.
2. Academic, political and diplomatic efforts are needed to reduce air pollution in the first place. However, here are some things you can do in the meantime
If the concentration of fine dust is high, patients with respiratory or cardiovascular disease, children, elderly, and pregnanwomen should refrain from going outside. Because inhaled fine dust is directly proportional to intensity and duration of activity, even healthy adults are advised to minimize extreme outdoor activities.
Avoid exercising on the roadside, as the roadside usually has a higher concentration of fine dust.
It is advisable to wear a dust mask when you are outdoors and to wash your nose and hands well after returning.Avoid exercising on the roadside, as the roadside usually has a higher concentration of fine dust.
As the concentration of fine dust in the room increases with the fine dust coming from the outside, the window should always be closed. Air filters or air purifiers can help.
Smoking in a room or turning on a candle should be avoided as it increases the concentration of fine dust.
