Environmental Health Criteria - 213: Carbon Monoxide

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This comprehensive assessment evaluates the risks of carbon monoxide exposure to human health and the environment, highlighting its colorless, odorless nature and sources from both natural and human activities. Extensive studies on health effects, particularly at low exposure levels, are discussed, with close to 1000 references included. The report identifies highway vehicle emissions as the primary source of environmental carbon monoxide, followed by non-highway transportation, fuel combustion, industrial processes, and solid waste disposal. Monitoring data indicates a decline in environmental concentrations due to effective emission controls. Indoor sources, notably cigarette smoke, are also examined. The report details carbon monoxide's environmental fate, its role in ozone production, and potential contributions to global warming. It identifies personal exposure sources, emphasizing that the general population's highest exposures occur in vehicles and indoor environments, while certain occupations face increased risks. Toxicokinetics and mechanisms of action are reviewed, focusing on factors influencing carboxyhaemoglobin levels and their toxic effects. Health impacts are explored through animal studies and human investigations, revealing risks such as cardiovascular and respiratory damage, neurobehavioral effects, and developmental toxicity. High-risk groups, particularly those with exercise-induced ischemia and pregnan