What is a stated reason children face disproportionately higher risks from particulate exposure?
Answer
They breathe more air relative to their body weight than adults
Certain populations experience a greater relative burden of harm from particulate pollution due to physiological and behavioral differences. Children are singled out as a disproportionately vulnerable group for several combined reasons. One key factor is their respiratory physiology: children take in a greater volume of air relative to their overall body mass compared to adults. Coupled with this higher intake rate, they often spend extended periods outdoors engaging in strenuous activities, thereby increasing their total cumulative exposure to airborne particulates while their lungs are still undergoing crucial developmental processes.
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