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| LEARN MORE: Size, Shape and Health Effects of Particulates
What are the health effects of particulates? Particles less than 10 micrometers in diameter (PM10) pose a health concern because they can be inhaled into and accumulate in the lungs and bloodstream. Particles that are 10 micrometers (µm) or larger tend to be captured in the nose or in the tracheal and bronchial regions of the respiratory tract. Particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter (PM2.5) are referred to as "fine" particles and are believed to pose the greatest health risks. Because of their small size (approximately 1/30th the average width of a human hair), fine particles can lodge deeply into the lungs. The deposits of particles in the lungs is not only influenced by particle size but also by concentration, composition, pH, and solubility. Deposits will also vary among nonsmokers, smokers and individuals with lung disease. Lung deposition is slightly higher in smokers and greatly increased in individuals with lung disease. Understanding scale
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