38 Percent of Northeasterners are Especially Susceptible to Particulate Air Pollution
Using susceptibility criteria compiled from major regulatory and research reports, this study found that within the New England, New Jersey, and New York study areas, 38 percent of the population is under age 18 or over age 65 — age groups considered especially sensitive to PM pollution effects.
Four to eighteen percent of the adults in the region have cardiopulmonary conditions or diabetes, while 12-15 percent of the children have respiratory allergies or lifetime asthma.
The study finds that more protective air quality standards are needed to protect these sensitive populations.
Johnson PRS, Graham JJ. Fine Particulate Matter National Ambient Air Quality Standards: Public Health Impact on Populations in the Northeastern United States. Environ Health Perspec 2005; 113:1140-1147.
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