Your smartphone's air quality index (AQI) provides a crucial daily reading on pollution levels. This number, typically from 1 to 10, reflects the concentration of key airborne pollutants that can significantly impact your health.
The index primarily measures fine particles (PM2.5), larger particles (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and sulphur dioxide (SO₂). PM2.5, in particular, is a dominant factor due to its profound health effects.
Exposure to these pollutants can lead to systemic inflammation, a weakened immune system, and even DNA alterations. Virtually every organ, including the lungs, heart, and brain, can be affected by both short-term and long-term exposure.
Understanding the AQI scale is vital for safety. Levels 1-3 indicate good air quality, allowing normal outdoor activities. Moderate levels (4-6) pose emerging risks, prompting those with respiratory conditions to reduce exertion. High levels (7 and above) necessitate limiting outdoor activities, especially strenuous exercise. At the most extreme levels (10), avoiding prolonged outdoor exposure and prioritizing indoor time is critical.
During periods of poor air quality, experts recommend using indoor air purifiers. If outdoor exposure is unavoidable, particularly during events like wildfires, FFP2 respirator masks are advised.