Particulate matter air pollution: effects on the respiratory system

Air pollution comprises a complex mixture of gaseous and particulate components. Particulate matter (PM) air pollution is associated with 4.7 million premature deaths per year. Among modifiable risk factors, air pollution exposure contributes to 8% of disability adjusted life years and ranks above factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, and high fasting plasma glucose. As the site of entry, exposure to PM air pollution causes respiratory symptoms and is a significant cause of respiratory morbidity and mortality. In this Review, we discuss the studies that link air pollution exposure with respiratory diseases. We review the epidemiological evidence linking PM exposure and lung diseases including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary fibrosis, pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and lung cancer. We also provide an overview of current knowledge about the mechanisms by which PM exerts its biological effects leading to adverse health effects in the respiratory system.