Indoor ultrafine particle exposures and home heating systems : a cross-sectional survey of Canadian homes during the winter months

Ultrafine particle (UFP) exposures can cause oxidative stress and inflammation in the lungs. The objective of that study was to examine the contribution of home heating systems such as electric baseboard heaters, wood stoves, forced-air oil/natural gas furnace, to indoor UFP exposures. The results of the cross-sectional survey conducted in 36 homes in the cities of Montreal, Quebec and Pembroke are presented. The authors' findings suggest that home heating systems are not important determinants of indoor UFP exposures.