Diesel exhaust contains significant levels of small
particles, known as fine particulate matter. Fine
particles are so small that several thousand of
them could fit on the period at the end of this
sentence. Diesel engines are the third largest human-made
source of fine particles contributing more than
20 percent of directly emitted fine particles (excludes
fugitive dust emissions from agricultural particles)
in New England. Click here for more information on fine particles in New England.
Fine particles in the air are a serious public
health problem. They pose a significant health risk
because they can pass through the nose and throat
and lodge themselves in the lungs. These fine particles
can cause lung damage and premature death. They
can also aggravate respiratory conditions such as
asthma and bronchitis.
Nationwide, particulate
matter, especially fine particles, is responsible
for 15,000 premature deaths every year.
Also, Diesel Particulate
Matter is likely to cause cancer in humans and
cause other acute and chronic health effects.
For more information about EPA's Health Assessment
Document for Diesel Exhaust click
here.
Who is Most at
Risk?
People with existing heart or lung disease, asthma
or other respiratory problems are most sensitive
to the health effects of fine particles. The elderly
and children are also at risk.
Children are more sensitive to air
pollution because they breathe at a faster rate
than adults.
Other Health
and Environmental Effects
Fine particles from diesel engines contribute
to haze which restricts our ability to see long distances.
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