The World Health Organization attributes a long list of chronic illnesses and millions of premature deaths annually to polluted air inside and outside the home. Instead of offering a refuge from dirty air, our homes can harbor a variety of problem compounds we don't even realize are there. Air pollution comes in many forms. One concern is PM2.5-particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 microns in diameter. These microscopic bits of debris can travel deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems, even death, says the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)-chemicals used in and released by many materials used to build and furnish homes-are another concern.
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