Airborne Particulate Matter : Impact on Human Health and Environment

Particulate matter (PM) in the ambient air is a key indicator of air pollution. It can be suspended over long time and travel over a long distance in the atmosphere. It can cause a wide range of diseases that lead to a significant reduction of human life. Because of the potent role of PM and its associated pollutants, detailed knowledge of their effects on the environment in general, and human health in particular, is of primary importance.

This book provides an in-depth overview of monitoring of airborne particulates and their sources and transport. The dynamics of nutrients, intake pathways of particulates by human body and other components of environment, and their possible health hazards and effects at different levels and at various organs are discussed. With contributions from well-known experts from diverse research fields, including medical and public health science professions, this book provides an exhaustive information on the health risks of air pollution and explores its control and mitigation strategies.

In addition to providing a scientific basis for particulate air pollution, this book will also help readers, researchers and public health professionals to appreciate the environmental determinants of public health and apply research evidence for improving the quality of life. This will also delineate future research initiatives and policy actions needed with more stringent strategies for protecting the environment in general and human health in particular from PM at local, regional, and global levels.