THE INVISIBLE KILLER
Understanding PM2.5 and why it's the deadliest form of air pollution.
What is PM2.5?
Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5) refers to tiny particles in the air that are two and one half microns or less in width. To put this in perspective, they are about 30 times smaller than the width of a human hair.
These particles are generated primarily by the combustion of fossil fuels in power plants, industrial processes, and vehicle emissions. In Mpumalanga, coal-fired power stations are the primary source.
⚠️ Did you know? A single breath of polluted Mpumalanga air can contain millions of PM2.5 particles that are invisible to the naked eye.
Size Comparison
(70 μm)
(10 μm)
(2.5 μm)
Size comparison (not to scale). PM2.5 is small enough to enter your bloodstream.
How PM2.5 Enters Your Body
The deadly journey of microscopic particles from the air into your vital organs.
Inhalation
You breathe in air containing PM2.5 particles from industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and coal-burning power plants.
Deep Penetration
Unlike larger particles that get trapped in nose and throat, PM2.5 bypasses natural defenses and travels deep into the lungs.
Alveolar Deposit
Particles reach the alveoli—tiny air sacs where oxygen enters the blood. Here they cause inflammation and oxidative stress.
Bloodstream Entry
Ultrafine particles pass through the thin alveolar walls directly into the bloodstream, beginning their journey through your body.
Organ Distribution
Carried by blood, PM2.5 reaches the heart, brain, liver, kidneys, and other vital organs, causing systemic inflammation.
Chronic Damage
Over time, accumulated particles trigger chronic diseases, genetic damage, and premature death—an average of 2.2 years of life lost.
Health Effects of PM2.5
Exposure to PM2.5 affects nearly every organ in your body. Here are the documented health impacts.
Heart Disease
PM2.5 particles enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in blood vessels, increasing risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death by up to 36%.
Respiratory Damage
Chronic exposure leads to reduced lung function, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma attacks, and permanent scarring of lung tissue.
Neurological Effects
Ultrafine particles can cross the blood-brain barrier, contributing to cognitive decline, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and increased risk of Parkinson's.
Child Development
Children exposed to PM2.5 face stunted lung development, increased asthma rates, lower IQ scores, and attention disorders that last into adulthood.
Cancer Risk
PM2.5 is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by WHO. Long-term exposure significantly increases lung cancer risk, even in non-smokers.
Eye & Skin Irritation
Direct contact causes burning eyes, chronic conjunctivitis, premature skin aging, and worsening of conditions like eczema and dermatitis.
Immune System
PM2.5 weakens the immune response, making the body more susceptible to respiratory infections, pneumonia, and viral diseases.
Pregnancy Complications
Pregnant women exposed to high PM2.5 levels face increased risks of preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues in newborns.
Who is Most Vulnerable?
Children
Developing lungs are especially susceptible. Children breathe faster, inhaling more pollutants per body weight.
Elderly
Weakened immune systems and pre-existing conditions make older adults highly vulnerable to PM2.5 effects.
Pregnant Women
Exposure during pregnancy can affect fetal development, leading to low birth weight and premature delivery.
Pre-existing Conditions
Those with asthma, COPD, heart disease, or diabetes face amplified risks from PM2.5 exposure.
Short-term Exposure Effects
- •Coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath
- •Aggravated asthma symptoms
- •Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- •Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- •Fatigue and decreased energy
- •Headaches and difficulty concentrating
Long-term Exposure Effects
- •Permanent lung damage and reduced function
- •Increased risk of lung cancer
- •Development of chronic bronchitis
- •Heart attacks and stroke
- •Cognitive decline and dementia
- •Shortened life expectancy (avg. 2.2 years)
Knowledge is Power
Now that you understand the deadly effects of PM2.5, join us in demanding clean air for all South Africans. Every breath matters.