The EPA has done studies on indoor air pollution [ http://www.epa.gov/iaq/ ]. There may not be a lot that you can do about the quality of the air outside of your home. This isn't a reason to neglect the quality of your indoor air -- in fact this is the precise reason why you shouldn't.
Here are a few things that the EPA identifies as indoor air pollution - asbestos, biological pollutants, Carbon Monoxide, Formaldehyde/Pressed Wood Products, Household Cleaning, Maintenance, lead, Nitrogen Dioxide, Pesticides, Radon, Respirable Particles, and secondhand smoke." Obviously some of these things are far more serious than others -- such as asbestos. The air purifier isn't a solution for these problems; however, this should be an indication to you of just how important air quality is to your health. With the amount of time we spend making sure that we eat the right food and exercise regularly shouldn't we be concerned that we breathe clean air?
Your children deserve clean air. Don't expose them to the negative effects of second hand smoke. This and other air pollutants can cause health problems for children both when they are young and when they grow up. Asthma has become a serious problem for many. Air pollutants have a negative impact on a child's development. Yes, you can smoke outside. However there are still impurities in your air which an air purifier can remove.
