According to the EPA, The biggest health threat from smoke is from fine particles known as Particulate Matter Pollution.
The Air Quality Life Index establishes that particulate matter pollution cuts the average person’s life short by nearly 2 years—more than devastating communicable diseases like tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS, behavioral killers like cigarette smoking, and even war. Whoa!!
Particulate matter– soot, smoke, and dust are suspended in the air, then enter the respiratory system along with the oxygen that the body needs. The finer the particles, the farther into the body they penetrate. They travel down the respiratory tract and into the lungs, where the metal elements on the surface of the particles oxidize lung cells, damaging their DNA and increasing the risk of cancer.[1]
The particles’ interactions with lung cells can also lead to inflammation, irritation, and blocked airflow, increasing the risk of or aggravating lung diseases that make breathing difficult, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), cystic lung disease, and bronchiectasis.[2]
The impact of particulate matter pollution on respiratory health is significant. Fine particles, such as soot, smoke, and dust, can enter the respiratory system and penetrate deep into the lungs. These particles can cause damage to lung cells, increase the risk of cancer, and lead to inflammation and blocked airflow. Individuals with pre-existing lung diseases, such as COPD, cystic lung disease, and bronchiectasis, are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of particulate matter pollution.
References:
[1] Xing, et al., 2016
[2] E.g. Ling & van Eeden, 2009
Immune & Respiratory Health (Part 1) – Recovery & Resistance: Botanicals for Immune Restoration
We’d love to have you join us for Berris Burgoyne of MediHerb’s “Immune & Respiratory Health Part 1”
A strong and healthy immune system is the best defense we have, but how do we support our immune system when it is already overworked? We often focus on preventative immune support and when there is an immediate challenge, but often we forget about the recovery phase. In this webinar, Berris Burgoyne, BHSc, ND, Dip Herb, will look at how botanicals can support the immune system after challenge. There will be a particular focus on Cat’s Claw, a Peruvian herb with a long tradition of supporting immune health, particularly in cases of immune depletion and recovery. Other botanicals useful for recovery — such as Astragalus, Ashwagandha, Echinacea, and Eleuthero — will also be explored. Berris will draw on her extensive clinical experience and explain when to use which herb, their actions, suggested use and safety, and how to combine botanicals to bring your patients back to good health.
Thursday, September 24, 2020 @ 4:00-5:15pm PST
Understanding the impact of particulate matter pollution on respiratory health is crucial. It not only shortens the average person’s life but also increases the risk of various lung diseases. We must take action to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the hidden dangers of smoke and particulate matter pollution. If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
How well gets done,
Kim
