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PM2.5 and PM10 Particles and Their Impact on Health

Particulate matter (PM) refers to microscopic particles in the air, measuring less than 10 micrometers (PM10) and 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) in size. These particles irritate the respiratory tract, causing coughing, worsening symptoms of asthma and bronchitis, and increasing the risk of cardiovascular and cancer diseases. PM2.5 is particularly dangerous as it can enter the bloodstream through the lungs.

In Armenia, the main sources are vehicle exhaust gases, burning of solid fuels (wood, coal), industrial production, and dust from roads and surrounding mountainous landscapes.

To determine the health risk level, the US agency AirNow developed a methodology for calculating the Air Quality Index US AQI, which is also used on our website.

US AQI Air Quality Index

AQI pm2.5, µg/m³ pm10, µg/m³ Recommendations
0–50 0.0-9.0 0-54

Clean Air

The air is clean, and the risk is minimal. No restrictions, enjoy the fresh air.

pm2.5: 0.0-9.0 µg/m³, pm10: 0-54 µg/m³
51–100 9.1-35.4 55-154

Moderate Pollution

Air quality is acceptable, but there may be a slight impact on individuals sensitive to pollution.

pm2.5: 9.1-35.4 µg/m³, pm10: 55-154 µg/m³
101–150 35.5-55.4 155-254

Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups

People with chronic illnesses may experience health effects. Children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues should avoid prolonged outdoor exertion.

pm2.5: 35.5-55.4 µg/m³, pm10: 155-254 µg/m³
151–200 55.5-125.4 255-354

Unhealthy Air

Negative health effects for everyone, especially high-risk groups. Avoid physical activity outdoors if possible. Vulnerable groups are advised to stay indoors. Use air purifiers indoors if available.

pm2.5: 55.5-125.4 µg/m³, pm10: 255-354 µg/m³
201–300 125.5-225.4 355-424

Very Unhealthy Air

Serious health effects for all residents. Stay indoors and use air purifiers. Wear respirators with fine particle protection if going outside.

pm2.5: 125.5-225.4 µg/m³, pm10: 355-424 µg/m³
301+ 225.5+ 425+

Hazardous Pollution

Critical air quality condition, posing a threat to everyone’s health. Avoid going outside. Keep windows and doors tightly closed. Use respirators with fine particle protection and air purifiers indoors.

pm2.5: 225.5+ µg/m³, pm10: 425+ µg/m³

Short-Term Effects of Particulate Matter

  • Respiratory tract irritation: dryness, coughing, scratchy throat.
  • Eye problems: itching, redness, a feeling of sand in the eyes.
  • Reduced physical activity: fatigue, weakness due to decreased oxygen saturation in the blood.
  • Asthma exacerbation: increased frequency and severity of attacks.

Long-Term Health Effects of Particulate Matter

  • Respiratory diseases: chronic bronchitis, emphysema, asthma.
  • Cardiovascular diseases: hypertension, increased risk of heart attack and stroke due to changes in blood vessels.
  • Some substances in PM2.5 (e.g., benzo[a]pyrene) have carcinogenic properties, increasing the risk of lung cancer.
  • Studies link long-term exposure to PM2.5 with cognitive decline and a higher risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.
  • Children's health deterioration: slowed lung development, increased likelihood of respiratory infections.

At-Risk Groups

  • Children: their respiratory systems are actively developing, and PM can cause irreversible harm.
  • Elderly people: chronic conditions such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases are aggravated by PM exposure.
  • People with chronic illnesses: asthma, bronchitis, and cardiovascular diseases make them more vulnerable.
  • Pregnant women: exposure to PM2.5 is linked to risks of premature birth, low birth weight, and slowed fetal development.

What to Do?

Sources of information

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