Fine Particles

Last updated on: 04/14/2010

Around a dozen epidemiological studies have been carried out looking at the relationship between long-term exposure to atmospheric pollution and lung cancer.
The term "fine particles" generally refers to particles with a diameter of less than 2.5 µg, which are suspended in the atmosphere. They represent one of the main health risk factors associated with air pollution. The effects that they have on health depend on the particle size (finer particles are potentially more toxic as they can penetrate more deeply into the lungs) and their chemical composition (they may have mutagenic and carcinogenic properties). The IARC has classified these particles as category 2A (probably carcinogenic). Action sheet 1 of the National Health Environment Action Plan 2 for 2009-2013 (in line with commitments 149 and 151 of the Grenelle Environnement) sets out a "Particle Plan" comprising four actions and three sub-actions. These actions and sub-actions involve:

• reducing particle emissions in the domestic sector
• reducing particle emissions from industrial and agricultural facilities
• regulating transport more effectively and reducing atmospheric emissions per unit for each mode of transport:

• reducing road vehicle emissions at source
• improving the environmental performance of road freight
• reducing emissions from boats and ships

• improving knowledge about particles.