What's in a Standard? PM2.5 & Our Health with Dr. Dan Costa

On this podcast, I talk to Dr. Dan Costa, who has his doctorate in toxicology and occupational health toxicology and occupational health. He has worked for the Department of Energy in the Brookhaven National Laboratory conducting research on the impact of fossil fuel related air pollutants on the lung and heart. He also served at the Environmental Protection Agency for over 34 years, conducting research on health science to inform critical policy questions. For his last 12 years at the EPA, he was the National Program Director for research on air, climate and energy issues. Today we talk about PM2.5, the history of understanding its impact on health, and the short and long-term standards. 

To Do:

1- Find out about the short and long term PM2.5 levels where you live. Review the American Lung Association's State of the Air report.

2- Make it a habit to check Airnow.gov to help determine when it is safe for you to exercise.

3- Avoid exercising by busy roads at rush hour- try to commute by bike or walk on less-trafficked paths if you can. Find parks or other “clean air islands” for play and exercise

4- Don’t contribute to PM2.5 if you can help it. Avoid burning things in your home, don’t burn decorative fires, don’t burn garbage or leaves to dispose of them. I guarantee my patients will thank you.

5- Consider a donation to the American Lung Association to support their work for healthy air for everyone.

Please Note- due to the omicron surge and heavier clinical burden, I am only releasing one podcast for the month of February. February 14th seemed appropriate, because the best gift you can give yourself and loved ones is a healthy heart by decreasing PM2.5! Please be sure to get your COVID19 vaccine and booster if you are eligible and have not already done so! 

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