WHY IS WOODBURNING AN AIR POLLUTION PROBLEM?

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WHY IS WOODBURNING AN AIR POLLUTION PROBLEM?

Findings from animal studies demonstrate a reduction in disease

resistance associated with woodsmoke exposure.

Woodsmoke exposure can disrupt cellular membranes, depress immune

system activity, damage the layer of cells that protect and cleanse

the airways, and disrupt enzyme levels.

The health effects of woodsmoke exposure include increased

respiratory symptoms, increased hospital admissions for lower

respiratory infections, exacerbation of asthma, and decreased

breathing ability.

Population studies have shown that young children, the elderly, and

people with preexisting cardiopulmonary disease are most likely to be

affected.

As a major contributor to particulate matter air pollution, woodsmoke

can also be linked directly with a variety of other particulate

matter-associated health effects, including increased risks of school

absenteeism, emergency room visits and hospitalizations for

cardiopulmonary conditions and premature death.

http://www.lungusa.org/site/c.dvLUK9O0E/b.23354/k.100/Woodburning.htm

Alana