Analyzing Air Quality Statements

The question asks to evaluate two statements concerning the health effects of air pollutants: ozone and particulate matter.

Statement 1: Ozone and Asthma

Statement 1 claims that higher ozone concentrations in ambient air worsen asthma symptoms. Scientific evidence widely supports this. Ozone is a respiratory irritant that can inflame the airways, leading to increased susceptibility to allergens and infections. For individuals with asthma, this inflammation can trigger or worsen symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, increasing the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.

Statement 2: Particulate Matter and Heart Attacks

Statement 2 suggests that a short-term increase in ambient particulate matter (PM) raises the risk of acute heart attacks. This is also a well-established link. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. This can cause inflammation, oxidative stress, and affect blood vessel function, potentially triggering cardiovascular events like heart attacks, especially in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.

Conclusion

Both statements accurately describe known health impacts of common air pollutants. Therefore, both statements are correct.