A new study out of Canada links cardiovascular, neurological and other diseases to poor air quality. According to Treehugger.com, a study from Public Health Ontario and Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences found that people living within 50 meters (164 feet) of busy highways had a seven percent higher likelihood of developing dementia, compared to those who lived more than 300 meters (about 1000 feet) away.
Our study is the first in Canada to suggest that pollutants from heavy, day-to-day traffic are linked to dementia. We know from previous research that air pollutants can get into the blood stream and lead to inflammation, which is linked with cardiovascular disease and possibly other conditions such as diabetes. This study suggests air pollutants that can get into the brain via the blood stream can lead to neurological problems,” says Dr. Ray Copes, chief of environmental and occupational health at PHO and an author on the paper.
These pollutants are small particles in the EPA PM2.5 range that are 2.5 microns and smaller.
One big thing you can do (without having to wear a face mask in your own home) is to regularly replace your air filter in your home or apartment.
The AirX “Health” MERV 13 filter takes out the highest percentage of these small particles, but did you know that the EPA states that even a MERV 11 filter can perform at close to HEPA quality.
“Experimental data and theoretical predictions indicate that medium efficiency air filters, MERV between 7 and 13, are likely to be almost as effective as true HEPA filters in reducing the concentrations of most indoor particles linked to health effects. Increasing filter efficiency above a MERV of 11 does not significantly reduce predicted indoor concentrations.” EPA 402-F-09-002 Residential Air Cleaners
That’s why we recommend the AirX “Allergy” MERV 11 filter. It’s the best blend of cost, airflow and efficiency.
Make sure you know the size of air filter you need before purchasing. You can find the size of your air filter by looking at the current filter you have. If the size isn’t printed on the air filter itself, you can typically do a simple measurement and get the size that way. Here is a air filter guide that will take you to all air filters Discount Filters carries in your size. Of course Discount Filters carries all air and furnace filters with free shipping and returns. To save on air filters go here and sign up for our emails at the bottom of the page.
For more information about this study check out this post and learn more about Dr. Ray Copes.
