Final answer:
Particulate matter can have negative health effects on individuals, including respiratory illnesses. This can result in higher medical expenses.
Step-by-step explanation:
Particulate matter refers to small particles such as dust, dirt, viral particles, and bacteria that are in the air. These particles can have negative health effects on individuals, especially when they are inhaled. Research has shown that exposure to particulate matter is associated with respiratory illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, and lung cancer. This can lead to increased medical expenses as individuals require treatment for these conditions.