An article published in the journal, Environmental Health Perspectives, reported on a study to quantify the short-term effects of particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide on respiratory health of asthmatic children. The conclusion provides strong evidence for an effect of particulate matter as an aggravating factor of asthma in children. Although there is no firm toxicologic evidence of adverse health effects of nitrogen dioxide at ambient levels to date, the epidemio­logic results suggest an adverse effect of nitrogen dioxide on respiratory health in children with asthma. To read the complete study, please click here.