With the project, the team of investigators wanted to better understand how fine particles of matter in the air, approximately 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter, could affect people's health. Some previous studies have shown how exposure to these small particles of air pollution can lead to cardiopulmonary disease and mortality. Other studies have shown that a reduction in air pollution is linked to decrease in negative health affects as well as an increase in life expectancy. The results of this current experiment showed that the decrease in the concentration of the particulate material in the air since 2000 was still improving life expectancy. Overall, air pollution has been decreasing in the U.S. since 1980. However, in 2000, the rate of decline began to slow, and the researchers wanted to study whether the decreases in the particulate matter levels since 2000 were still leading to a boost in life expectancy. . "However, the extent to which more recent regulatory actions have benefited public health remains in question. This study provides strong and compelling evidence that continuing to reduce ambient levels of PM2.5 prolongs life."
http://news360.com/article/162778338
http://news360.com/article/162778338
