From the Email Inbox: Pollution No More Please

Health Effects of Particle Pollution

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY-ranked 1st nationwide for the worst fine particle, or "soot," pollution among large metro areas, according to a new report released today by Environment California, a statewide environmental advocacy group.

Particle pollution - especially fine particles - contains microscopic solids or liquid droplets that are so small that they can get deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems. Numerous scientific studies have linked particle pollution exposure to a variety of problems, including:

* increased respiratory symptoms, such as irritation of the airways, coughing, or difficulty breathing, for example
* decreased lung function;
* aggravated asthma;
* development of chronic bronchitis;
* irregular heartbeat;
* nonfatal heart attacks; and
* premature death in people with heart or lung disease.

Because of their small size, fine particles can bypass the body's natural defenses, such as coughing and sneezing, and lodge deep in the lungs or even pass into the bloodstream, causing serious respiratory and cardiovascular problems, such as asthma attacks, heart attacks, and lung cancer. Fine particle pollution cuts short the lives of tens of thousands of Americans each year, according to EPA.

Fine particle pollution was high year-round

5000 more cars will be traveling Michigan to Barton Road every day once the high school and Highland's 2000 homes are built.