Massive wildfires are raging around the world, blanketing millions of people under pungent haze caused by smoke carrying noxious gases and particulate matter that pose serious health risks.
What is Contained in Wildfire Smoke?
Wildfire smoke can linger in the air for weeks and travel thousands of miles, containing particles of soil and biological materials, as well as traces of chemicals, metals, plastics, and other synthetic materials.
Known Health Effects
Studies have linked wildfire smoke with higher rates of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiac arrests, increases in emergency room visits for asthma, weakened immune defenses, and poorer survival rates after surgery.
Wildfire exposure in pregnancy has been associated with miscarriage, low birth weight, and preterm delivery. A California study found a link between wildfire exposure and cellular damage in first- and second-trimester placentas.
Mitigating the Risks
Experts advise wearing N95 masks when wildfire smoke is present and limiting outdoor activities, especially strenuous sports. The use of indoor air purifiers that can trap particles smaller than 2.5 microns is also recommended.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
