Pollutant

Effect on human health

Nitrogen oxides

Irritation of airways. In high concentrations can cause bronchitis and pneumonia.

Sulfur oxides

Irritation of airways. In high concentrations can cause bronchitis and tracheitis.

Ozone (ground level)

Irritation of airways. In high concentrations can reduce pulmonary function, worsen asthma, inflame lung wall cells and worsen chronic pulmonary diseases.

Volatile organic compounds

Promote the formation of ground-level ozone.

Carbon monoxide

In high concentrations inhibits cellular oxygen transport. Prolonged exposure can cause

lightheadedness, headaches, loss of consciousness and even death.

Particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤ 2.5 microns

Worsen asthma, reduce pulmonary function, associated with diabetes development and can cause fetus size reduction.

Particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤ 10 microns

Worsen asthma and cardiovascular respiratory diseases, Chronic exposure to high concentrations can cause in increased risk of morbidity and mortality.