Pollution by definition is "the presence or introduction into the environment of a substance or thing that has harmful or poisonous effects". From the 1960s to the 1980s, studies have shown that air pollution affects our health (C. Arden Pope III). Studies have shown that the effects of air pollution can lead to respiratory disease, death and cardiovascular problems. The Clean Air Act requires the EPA to regulate these six common air pollutants; ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides and lead (Environmental Protection Agency). Ground-level ozone is created by the reactions of nitrogen and other organic compounds. Carbon monoxide also known as CO is an odorless gas that is emitted by combustion processes. Nitrogen dioxide, also known as NO2, is a gas that forms from emissions from cars and other equipment. Sulfur dioxide comes from emissions from at least 73% of power plants and 27% from industrial plants. The Environmental Protection Agency has classified at least several types of air pollutants; ground-level ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides. Ground-level ozone also known as particulate matter and nitrogen oxide are identical and are created by chemical reactions with nitrogen and other organic compounds. These compounds come from motor vehicles, gasoline and other industrial plants. Exposure to ground-level ozone can cause asthma, bronchitis, and even emphysema (Environmental Protection Agency). Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that comes from combustion sources such as stoves and stoves. The effects of exposure to carbon monoxide, also known as CO, can reduce the supply of oxygen to any organ in the body, particularly... middle of paper... pollution, while increasing the amount of carbon dioxide in the 'air. (Mahowald Natalie). I hope this essay highlights the insight into why air pollution is harmful to our health. It causes so many respiratory problems and more that the dangerous toxicity of the gases we are exposed to every day is killing us. Studies have shown that the connection between pollutants such as ozone and sulfate has increased the number of asthma attacks. Some have said that pollution is good for us and when we need it we support life on Earth. Studies also show a connection between short-term exposure and increases in emergency department visits and hospital admissions for respiratory illnesses, particularly in at-risk populations, including children, the elderly, and increases in the number of asthma attacks. The chance of having an asthma attack varies depending on how much it is due to exposure to air pollution.