As Americans celebrate Independence Day, fireworks displays can pose serious health risks, particularly to the lungs. According to the American Lung Association, nearly 300 million pounds of fireworks are released into the atmosphere each year in the U.S., creating smoke filled with tiny particles and gases like sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide, which are very harmful to our lungs.
Health Risks from Fireworks
The smoke from fireworks can also release harmful metals, like aluminum, manganese, and cadmium, into the air. Some illegal fireworks may contain lead, which is extremely dangerous due to its potential to cause lasting health damage. Inhaling these chemicals can irritate the lungs, making it hard to breathe and causing serious health problems.
Air pollution levels increase by an average of 42% on the Fourth of July, according to a 2015 study. Smoke from fireworks can worsen symptoms and cause flare-ups in those who have asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Fine particle pollution has also been linked to more serious health consequences, including heart attacks, stroke, lung cancer, and premature death.
Dr. Afif El-Hasan, a member of the Lung Association’s board of directors, recommends watching fireworks from a distance and wearing a well-fitting N95 mask to reduce exposure to fine particles from fireworks smoke and debris. People with asthma should keep their rescue inhaler close at hand and take preventative medication before a fireworks show.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
