ABSTRACT
Increases in the concentration of fine particles in the air are associated with increases in mortality. The excess deaths are predominantly from respiratory causes, but deaths from cardiovascular causes are affected as well. This association has been observed in many cities worldwide; and perhaps most remarkably, remains strong at low particle concentrations previously thought to be without adverse health effects. The mechanisms by which particulate pollution induces health effects at such low mass concentrations remain unclear. Determining the biological mechanisms involved has been identified as a high-priority research need in the United States (1) and other countries. As suggested by the word cardiopulmonary this chapter will explore hypotheses and evidence linking particle exposure with both respiratory and cardiac dysfunction and disease.
