Scientists to study PM 2.5 hazards to lungs

Local respiratory experts said they are going to carry out a PM 2.5 air quality research to find out the composition of inhalable chemical particles in the air of Shanghai and their hazards to lungs.

Dr Bai Chunxue, director of Shanghai Medical Association's respiratory branch, said inhalable chemical particles in each region are different and their research should be useful for the city government to direct pollution control.

Particle matters smaller than 2.5 microns in diameter are a major source of air pollution and urban smog. PM 2.5 comes from emissions from auto vehicles, power plants, factories, forest fires and field burning.

Bai said the harm of PM 2.5 could be as serious as smoking.

"Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer are major killers in the nation. We want to identify chemicals that cause inflammation and cancerous change through the study of PM 2.5," he said.

Officials from the Shanghai Science and Technology Commission said it will conduct research for effective measures to reduce PM 2.5 discharge, such as installing filters inside vehicle exhaust pipes, improving petrol quality, and using new technologies to cut power plant emissions.