These particles are then inhaled, such as carbon (soot) emitted from combustion sources, fungal spores, pollen, erosion, agricultural activities, volcanic eruptions… but also cooking, heating system, cigarette smoke, etc.
The health effects of particulate matter are mainly respiratory and cardiac: cough, irritation, bronchial inflammation, respiratory infections, etc. They are also credited with a role in the increase of cardiovascular disease and the development of lung cancers.