Particles in Our Air: Exposures and Health Effects

It is no secret that the burning of fossil fuels causes air pollution and adversely affects the health of the human population. Over the last 10 years, research has been providing new insight about the health consequences of particulate air pollution. Generated by the use of fossil energy, respirable-sized particles pose a major threat to our environment and health. In this book the hypothesis that fossil fuels are the primary culprit is examined in detail, including the nature, generation, and transport of particulate air pollution. The authors cite studies on animals and epidemiological studies―those showing acute effects soon after exposure and those exhibiting chronic effects decades later―and include models describing mechanisms by which the effects of fine particulates can be induced. Through its probing inquiry, this book makes clear that present levels of air pollution, even in countries with aggressive environmental controls, are a health hazard that must be contended with.

John Spengler is Professor of Environmental Health at Harvard University.

Richard Wilson was Mallinckrodt Professor of Physics, Emeritus, at Harvard University.