Air pollution does not need to cause coughing to cause harm. Fine particles penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, increasing the risk of asthma, heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer.

Damage accumulates silently, particularly in children and people with pre-existing disease.

Sources of harmful exposure

• Vehicle emissions
• Indoor cooking smoke
• Industrial pollution

Who is most vulnerable

• Children
• Older adults
• People with asthma or heart disease

Bottom line: Clean air is preventive medicine. Exposure reduction protects long-term health.