onger term exposures at levels below the old ozone standard caused health
problems, including asthma attacks, breathing and respiratory problems,
loss of lung function, and possible long-term lung damage and lowered
immunity to disease. Fine particulate matter was found to lodge deeply
in the lungs and cause respiratory problems and premature deaths. These
fine particles come from burning (such as in fireplaces, campfires, woodstoves,
prescribed burns, and rice burning) and chemical reactions that occur
in the air. We are all at risk. Health problems linked to air pollution
range from eye irritation, sore throats, and coughing to lung damage,
cancer, and pre-mature death. Healthy children and adults who play or
exercise vigorously are also at risk.
And the Economy
Every year, Californian's lose billions of dollars due to air pollution.
The cost of health-related problems, plus damage to crops, forests, and
wild vegetation, all add up to a big drain on California's economy. Air
pollution is something we can't afford.
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