Do not inhale! How wildfire smoke 'affects the whole body'
Wildfires destroy lives and livelihoods. But survivors and firefighters also suffer long-term harm to their health. A growing body of research suggests particulate matter (PM2.5) in wildfire smoke is a major culprit.
Wildfire smoke poses serious health risks that extend far beyond the lungs, according to recent research. Emory University professor Yang Liu explained that smoke triggers oxidative stress throughout the body, accelerating disease development. A 2026 study revealed that even moderate smoke exposure raises stroke risk among older adults. Another study found long-term wildfire smoke exposure contributed to around 24,100 US deaths annually between 2006 and 2020.
The most harmful component of smoke is fine particulate matter (PM2.5), consisting of soot, dust, and toxic compounds that can enter the bloodstream and damage organs. PM2.5 has been linked to lung diseases, heart issues, diabetes, dementia, and cancer. Pregnant women face heightened risks of premature births and low birth weight. The smoke's toxicity varies based on the fire's location and burning materials.
Research in Greece discovered wildfire smoke can become four times more toxic within days post-fire. Smoke particles can travel thousands of miles, persisting in the atmosphere for up to ten days. During 2023's Canadian wildfires, PM2.5 pollution affected North America and even reached Europe and Asia. Studies estimate that wildfire smoke from the Canadian event caused roughly 5,400 acute deaths in North America and 64,300 chronic deaths in North America and Europe.
While other pollution sources like traffic exhaust and industrial emissions cause overall more deaths due to frequent exposure, wildfire smoke remains uniquely dangerous, particularly for those living near fire-prone areas. To mitigate risks, experts recommend staying indoors during and after fires, employing air filtration systems, wearing N95 masks, and preparing emergency medication for vulnerable individuals.
Pre-fire precautions such as clearing flammable materials and setting up neighborhood monitoring groups are also advised.
Written by urgent.news from Deutsche Welle Science's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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