In 1997, following a heated controversy, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued new National Ambient Air Quality Standards for fine particles and established an eight-hour standard for ozone. EPA estimated that the revised standards would avert 15,000 premature deaths each year, and prevent 250,000 cases of aggravated asthma, 60,000 cases of chronic bronchitis, 9,000 hospital admissions, and 1.5 million cases of significant breathing problems. When the standards were adopted, the President directed EPA to beef up its health effects research program, and to complete a review of the new standards within five years, before control requirements would take effect. EPA is now in the midst of the review of these health-based air quality standards. This presentation will review new health studies that have emerged as a result of the $50 million annual investment in research. We will outline EPA process and timeline for review of the health-based air quality standards. We will discuss the key policy issues at stake in the EPA review, and opportunities for the public health community to weigh in. See www.cleanair.net/SmogSoot/naaqs-pm.htm
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participants will be able to: understand recent studies of the health effects of particulate air pollution; recognize the process and timeline for the EPA review of the National Ambient Air Quaity standards for particulate matter and ozone; and evaluate policy issues at stake in the review of the standards.
Keywords: Air Pollutants, Environmental Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: American Lung Association
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: I am a consultant to the American Lung Association.