on monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ozone, suspended particulates, and greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide and methane). Studies have shown that ozone produces the most negative effects on humans. "These effects include coughing, difficulty in breathing, chest tightness, and nausea; reduced lung functions with possible lung inflammation, hyperactivity, and alterations in lung clearance; special problems for persons with respiratory diseases; and decreased ability to exercise strenuously. Laboratory animal studies suggest there may be biochemical, immunological, and morphological changes in respiratory tract tissues (van Bree 1993)." Air pollution can also have effects that are less serious, but, nevertheless harmful. "It can make your eyes water, irritate your nose, and cause headaches, coughing, sneezing, sore throat, dizziness and nausea (Dreher 1998)."To alert people of pollutant levels, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports a Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) every day. The PSI considers the levels of carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter in the air and uses a scale (from 1-500) to show the combined levels of pollutants in the air on a given day. If the PSI level is less than 50, then the air is considered to be healthy. However, a PSI of 300 or more may be hazardous to your health. When the PSI is above 400, the EPA highly recommends that everyone in the general population should remain indoors. Also at PSI levels of above 400, "premature death of ill and elderly persons may result (Dreher 1998)." Even PSI levels of around 100 are considered to be unhealthful; the EPA suggests that "susceptible individuals, such as those with heart or lung disease, should minimize outdoor activity (Underwood 1998)." For the above reasons it is very important to be aware of the PSI levels in the areas in which you live. Smog does not only occur in Los Angeles!Many people believe that air pollutio...
