Researchers warn that wildfire smoke, filled with harmful pollutants, may interfere with anesthesia and worsen surgical outcomes, especially for children and sensitive groups.
Wildfire smoke contains fine particles and chemicals that cause inflammation and reduce antioxidant levels, impacting health.
Exposure can exacerbate cardiovascular issues and damage organs, complicating perioperative outcomes for patients.
Children with prior respiratory issues are significantly more affected by poor air quality during surgeries.
Key quote:
“Wildfire smoke poses significant health risks, particularly in people with pre-existing heart and lung disease, obese patients, infants and young children and other vulnerable groups.”
— Vijay Krishnamoorthy, chief of Duke University School of Medicine’s Critical Care Medicine Division.
Rupa Marya discusses land rematriation, her new Indigenous-led farm, and the long-term effects of colonization on food and medicine in vulnerable communities.
