Air quality is an issue that many people don't think about, but it affects almost every aspect of our day-to-day lives. The impact of air pollution isn't discussed anywhere near often enough, despite the fact that there are serious risks to our health caused by ongoing exposure to poor air quality. Even if you're aware that the air you're breathing isn't as clean as it should be, it can be difficult to know what to do to address the issue. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help you breathe a little easier. Read on to learn how to improve indoor air quality and reduce air pollution in your home.

How can you improve the air quality in your home?

Anyone experiencing poor indoor air quality on a consistent basis should start by checking to see if their HVAC system is functioning properly. Your HVAC is often your home's first line of defense against air pollution. It should be serviced annually and have the filter changed at least once every 90 days. You can also look into other products that can help, like a kitchen air filter. Adding air purifiers to high-traffic spaces like your kitchen, living room, and bedroom can make a significant difference in your air quality.

You may not realize it, but putting some houseplants in your home can also help improve the air quality indoors. Some studies suggest that indoor plants reduce levels of airborne mold and bacteria. You can find a wide variety of affordable plants, flowers, and succulents that will make your home look and feel greener. There are even potted plant delivery services from companies like Lively Root, which make it easier than ever to purchase some indoor plants and have them delivered right to your doorstep.

There are also several simple lifestyle adjustments you can make to improve air quality, like vacuuming more frequently. Items like area rugs and floor-length curtains should also be laundered regularly, as they have a tendency to trap allergens like pet dander and dust. If you live in an area where the outdoor air is clean, you should also make an effort to open your windows more often to let fresh air in.

What are the risks associated with air pollution?

The impact of air pollution on your health can be severe, and it increases your risk for a number of health conditions and diseases. It has been linked to heart and lung problems, including coronary artery disease, emphysema, respiratory infections, stroke, and cancer. Additionally, research indicates that poor air quality can be particularly harmful for those who are pregnant, as it can increase the risk of birth defects. It can also exacerbate other conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that almost 4 million people die prematurelyevery year from issues related to household air pollution. Most of these deaths were due to cardiovascular diseases, with ischemic heart disease and stroke being the biggest contributors. In the United States, more than half the population live in an area where ozone and particulate matter in the air exceed recommended safety standards.

Air pollution and the quality of your indoor air affect your life and your health in more ways than you probably realize. Your indoor air quality could be putting you at risk for illness or disease or worsening the symptoms of health conditions that you already have. There are a lot of ways you can boost your home's air quality without breaking the bank or overhauling your whole lifestyle, as long as you're willing to put in the time and energy to make some changes. It's more than worth the effort to take better care of yourself and your health at home.