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Table 1 Major pollutants affecting the quality of indoor air and the common sources of emission

From: A comprehensive review on indoor air quality monitoring systems for enhanced public health

Pollutants

Major Sources of Emission

Associated Medical Health Consequences

SO2

Fossil fuel combustion such as oil, coal and natural gas, outdoor air

Acute exposure leads to bronchial activity.

CO

Tobacco smoke, stoves, boilers, kerosene or gas heaters, fuel burning

Low birth weight, Increase in perinatal deaths

CO2

Combustion activities, metabolic activity and motor vehicle in garages

Headaches, sleepiness, Poor concentration, Loss of attention

Fungal Spores

Internal surfaces, foodstuffs, plants and soil

Asthma episodes, Allergic reactions, Eye, throat and nose irritation, Sinus and other respiratory problems

Radon

Soil Building concentration materials such as stone and concrete

Risk of lung cancer, Breathing problems

Asbestos

Insulation, fire retardant materials

Cancers such as mesothelioma, Pleural thickening, Pleural plaques and asbestosis

NO2

Motor vehicles in garages, fuel burning and outdoor air

Exacerbation of asthma and wheezing, Reduced lung function in kids, Respiratory infections

Pollens and allergens

Outdoor air, plants, weeds, grass, trees, insects, domestic animals, and house dust

Trigger symptoms of allergy

Particles (small particles < 10 μm; and < 2.5 μm aerodynamic diameter)

Tobacco smoke, re-suspension, combustion products

Exacerbation of Asthma, Wheezing, Respiratory infections, Exacerbation of COPD, Chronic bronchitis and COPD

Ozone

Photochemical reactions

Airway irritation, Permanent lung damage, Pneumonia and bronchitis, Aggravate asthma

Lead

Paints, firearms, lead bullets, dust, soil, radiators, consumer products

Memory loss, Hearing loss, Damage to the nervous system in new-borns, High blood pressure, Kidney & heart disease, Reduced fertility, Hyperactivity or loss of consciousness

VOCs

Burning of gas, wood, and kerosene, cleaning agents, paints, hair spray, perfumes and tobacco smoke

Allergic skin reactions, Visual disorders and memory impairments, Damage to the central nervous system, kidney, and liver, Decline in serum, cholinesterase levels, SBS