Indoor Air Pollution: Exposure and Treatment

Course overview

Indoor air pollution is common, with sources like mold, secondhand smoke, volatile organic compounds, cleaning agents, dust mites, and insects. Exposure is strongly linked to an increased risk of developing and worsening asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, often triggering exacerbations. Children are especially vulnerable due to their higher respiratory rate and developing lungs. The United States Environmental Protection Agency recommends key steps to improve indoor air quality: reducing/removing pollutant sources, increasing ventilation, and using air filtration (like HEPA filters). While evidence is mixed on whether these measures definitively improve health outcomes for those with established airway disease, HEPA filters have shown potential benefits, especially in reducing symptoms for people with chronic lung disease.