Although most people can smell extremely high levels of some This air pollution could have serious health effects, especially if the pollutants are hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) also known as toxic air pollutants.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) urges those who have high levels of exposure to VOCs at work to use protective gear such as respirators to reduce their exposure to these contaminants. Key signs or symptoms associated with exposure to VOCs include irritation of the nose and throat, headaches, memory impairment, allergic skin reactions, dyspnea, nausea, emesis, epistaxis, fatigue and dizziness. The range of health effects caused by these organic compounds varies greatly since some are highly toxic while others have no known health effects. As with other pollutants, the extent and nature of the health effect depend on many factors including the level of exposure, the length of time exposed and how sensitive one is to the chemical. Currently the best strategy, for dealing with VOCs, is prevention. If that is not possible, you could use purification to assist in reducing exposure.
There are multiple studies currently attempting to identify all of the different health effects that may result from the exposure to this type of air pollution. Many organic compounds are already known to cause cancer in animals. Some are suspected of causing, or known to cause, cancer in humans. The U.S Geological Survey is dedicated to the impartial study of the landscape, our natural resources, and hazards that threaten us. VOCs are of particular concern to the USGS because these organic compounds are contaminating our ground water.
