The term PM stands for particulate matter, which is a unit of measurement for the size of particles in the air
PM 2.5 refers to particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers, and when compared to the size of our hair, which is 50-70 micrometers, these tiny particles are 20-30 times smaller than the diameter of a hair strand.
The Importance of PM 2.5
Normally, our respiratory tract has cilia and secretes mucus and phlegm to trap foreign particles and prevent them from entering the respiratory system. However, particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers can penetrate into the small bronchioles, and if they are smaller than 1 micrometer, they can enter the bloodstream.
Therefore, when the air quality has PM 2.5 levels exceeding the standard, the first groups to be significantly affected are young children, the elderly, those with chronic respiratory diseases, lung diseases, and heart diseases, due to their weaker defense mechanisms compared to healthy individuals.
For healthy individuals, studies have found that prolonged exposure to air with PM 2.5 levels above the standard is associated with an increased risk of death from lung and heart diseases (cardiopulmonary mortality) and also increases the risk of lung cancer.
Prevention
- It is recommended to avoid outdoor activities and outdoor exercise.
- If it is necessary to go outdoors, it is recommended to wear a mask. Studies have found that
- N95 masks can filter about 90-95% of PM 2.5 particles.
- PM 2.5 masks can filter about 90% of PM 2.5 particles.
- General surgical masks can filter about 40% of PM 2.5 particles.
- General surgical masks layered with two layers of tissue paper can filter about 90% of PM 2.5 particles.
To be effective in protecting against PM 2.5 dust, masks must be worn correctly and fit snugly on the wearer’s face.
