Wildfire smoke poses long-term health threats

Editor's Note

The wildfire smoke blanketing the Los Angeles region poses significant longer-term health and economic consequences, according to a January 10 article in Bloomberg.

Already, the fires have displaced nearly 180,000 people and cost up to $20 million in insured losses, the outlet reports. What remains to be seen is the extent of the effects of wildfire smoke, laden with pollutants like ozone, carbon monoxide, and fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM0.1), penetrating deep into the lungs, entering the bloodstream, and affecting every organ in the body.

Exposure to wildfire smoke is linked to a range of acute and chronic health issues, Bloomberg reports, including respiratory problems, increased susceptibility to diseases like COVID-19 and pneumonia, and long-term effects such as dementia and pregnancy complications. Pollution levels during severe smoke events can increase daily mortality rates by 5% to 15%, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with preexisting conditions.

Additionally, article sources say wildfire smoke impacts extend far beyond fire zones as winds carry hazardous particulates across regions.  Long-term costs from wildfire smoke between 2008 and 2012 were estimated at $76 billion to $130 billion.

To mitigate health risks, experts recommend monitoring local air quality via tools like AirNow and using protective measures, including N95 masks, air purifiers, and HVAC filters, Bloomberg reports. High-risk groups, including pregnant women and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, should exercise heightened caution.