What is the health impact of long-term exposure to PM2.5?

• A. Skin irritation
• B. Liver injury
• C. Eye infections
• D. Cardiovascular and respiratory diseases

Answer: (D)

Long-term exposure to PM2.5 primarily harms the cardiovascular and respiratory systems because these tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. This triggers chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, which damage blood vessels, raise blood pressure, and make the heart work harder. Over time, these changes increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and worsened heart failure, and they also drive the development and progression of respiratory conditions like COPD, asthma exacerbations, and lung cancer. This combination of effects on the heart and lungs represents the strongest and most consistent health burden seen with prolonged PM2.5 exposure.

While irritation of skin or eyes can occur with exposure, the lasting, population-level health consequences are best described as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.