Indoor pollution that generally occurs in developing areas of the world has more dangerous effects the outdoor one. The pollutants inhaled by the human beings, plants and animals have serious impact on each one of them. It is hazardous for the health of the people inhabiting that area where it occurs. Therefore decontamination ventilation must be arranged for.
A large amount of energy is utilized by the people of developing countries and this energy is derived from wood, charcoal etc. But there is no decontamination ventilation for the removal of the pollutants that are produced on burning wood or charcoal. Food is cooked on the stoves in the open and there are open fires also in rural areas, which also eliminate the hygiene factor. Women and children are usually affected by this pollution because they spend a large portion of their time inside without decontamination ventilation.
Coal is commonly used in developing countries as a fuel and it emits very dangerous and toxic pollutants like carbon dioxide, particulate matter, organic matter etc. Open burning of coal was the factor most responsible for the pollution. This form of pollution, common in many cities using coal as a heating fuel, is associated with excess mortality and increased prevalence of chronic bronchitis, respiratory tract infections in the young and old and possibly even lung cancer. In the absence of decontamination ventilation, many deaths take place because of cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer and chronic respiratory infections.
Outdoor pollution is caused by the pollutants emitted by the sources of pollution which are present outside homes. They can also be responsible for adversely affecting the health of the population. Some of the gases which cause outdoor pollution are:
Carbon monoxide – When it enters the blood, it combines with the hemoglobin and reduces the amount of oxygen, which enters out blood from out lungs. The person feels dizzy and is unable to perform simple tasks; judgment is also impaired and organs like brain, cardiovascular system and the developing fetus is also affected.
Sulphur dioxide – It is produced by the burning of fossils. It forms sulphuric acid on oxidation. On being released in air, sulphur dioxide causes lung disorders like wheezing and shortness of breath.
Lead – It damages the nervous system, digestive system and even causes cancer on prolonged exposure. Small children must be kept away from it, as it is hazardous for them.
Oxides of nitrogen – They are responsible for causing respiratory diseases in children.
Biological pollutants – It consists of allergens that lead to asthma, hay fever and other allergies.
Decontamination ventilation eliminates the chances of catching such deadly diseases.
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