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Wildfires in Canada bring health concerns with persistent smoke exposure
Increased frequency and intensity of wildfires in Canada pose significant long-term health risks due to persistent smoke exposure.
Stephanie Cleland and Ryan W. Allen write for The Conversation.
In short:
- Wildfires in Canada have increased by 220% over the last two decades, threatening air quality.
- Long-term exposure to wildfire smoke is linked to premature death, reduced lung function and increased cancer risks.
- Persistent smoke exposure also affects cognitive function and prenatal health.
Why this matters:
Chronic exposure to wildfire smoke can lead to a variety of long-term respiratory issues. Conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can be exacerbated, leading to more frequent and severe attacks. Even those without pre-existing conditions can develop new respiratory problems after prolonged exposure to these harmful pollutants. For vulnerable populations like children, the elderly and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, the risks are even higher.
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Credit: Jackie Burton/Pixabay
Smoke from wildfires increases risk of dementia more than other pollution
Wildfire smoke poses a greater risk of dementia than other types of air pollution, according to a new study.
In short:
- PM2.5 pollution from wildfire smoke is more harmful to brain health than other sources of pollution.
- A study of over 1.2 million people in Southern California showed a significant increase in dementia risk from wildfire smoke.
- The Alzheimer’s Association urges policy changes to prevent wildfires and reduce exposure.
Key quote:
“Air pollution produced by wildfires now accounts for more than 70% of total PM2.5 exposure on poor air quality days in California. This is a real problem.”
— Dr. Holly Elser, neurology resident at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
Why this matters:
With the increasing frequency of wildfires, understanding their impact on brain health is vital. Effective policies and personal precautions can help mitigate these health risks.
Related EHN coverage:
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Credit: Patou Ricard/Pixabay
People should take wildfire smoke more seriously
Research shows wildfire smoke is a major health hazard, but many Americans continue to disregard the risks.
In short:
- Wildfire smoke contains tiny particles that pose serious health risks and kill thousands annually.
- Recent studies show almost all of North America has experienced smoke coverage at some point in recent years.
- Despite the dangers, public awareness and protective actions, such as mask-wearing, remain insufficient.
Key quote:
“There’s a lot of chemicals in that. There’s all sorts of things in the pollution that you might not see in other sources of PM2.5. We’re still unclear on what that means for health.”
— Marissa Childs, an environmental-health researcher at the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health
Why this matters:
Research indicates that wildfire smoke contains a hazardous mix of particulate matter, gases, and chemicals that can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. These tiny particles, known as PM2.5, are particularly concerning due to their ability to trigger respiratory and cardiovascular problems. For vulnerable populations—children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions like asthma or heart disease—the risks are even higher.
Related EHN coverage:
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Newsletter
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Arizona GOP and commerce leaders contest EPA's stricter pollution standards
Arizona Republicans and the Chamber of Commerce are suing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency over its latest pollution control measures, calling them unrealistic and economically harmful.
In short:
- The lawsuit argues that the new EPA rule, reducing air pollution limits, imposes undue burdens on Arizona's businesses and energy sector.
- Arizona faces specific challenges meeting these standards due to its current air quality and concerns over wildfire smoke contributions.
- The case is part of wider resistance against the EPA's environmental policies, with similar opposition emerging from other Republican-led states.
Key quote:
"This rule will create unnecessary hardships for job creators and hardworking Arizonans."
— Senate President Warren Petersen.
Why this matters:
At the heart of this dispute is the EPA's decision to tighten air quality standards, specifically targeting reductions in particulate matter pollution. Poor air quality disproportionately affects marginalized and lower-income communities, often those living near industrial sites, major roadways, or in areas with fewer environmental protections. Reducing particulate pollution can help address these disparities, leading to fairer and more equitable health outcomes across society.
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Credit: Mike Marrah/Unsplash
A global breath of concern: most nations fail WHO air quality standards
Fewer than 10% of countries met the World Health Organization's air quality guidelines last year, spotlighting a pervasive health threat.
In short:
- Only 10 out of 134 countries and territories achieved WHO standards for PM2.5, a harmful air pollutant.
- The worst air quality was found in Asia and Africa, with pollution sources including vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and household burning.
- China saw a significant increase in air pollution in 2023, reversing years of progress.
Key quote:
"Air pollution and climate change both have the same culprit, which is fossil fuels."
— Glory Dolphin Hammes, CEO of IQAir’s North American division
Why this matters:
Nations' adherence to these guidelines varies widely, influenced by economic, technological, and policy factors. Developed countries generally fare better in meeting these standards. However, in many developing countries, particularly in regions like South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, adherence to WHO guidelines is a significant challenge.
Researchers recently found higher than average rates of Parkinson’s disease coupled with high levels of PM2.5 in South Texas, the Mississippi-Ohio River Valley and other locations.
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EU updates air pollution limits, yet falls short of optimal health standards
The European Union has revised its air pollution regulations, setting stricter limits on harmful pollutants, although these new standards still don't meet the World Health Organization's recommended levels.
In short:
- The EU has lowered annual limits for PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide, aiming to significantly reduce air pollution's health risks.
- Despite these changes, the set targets remain double what the WHO advises for safe air quality levels.
- Loopholes within the legislation may allow member states to postpone compliance with these new standards for up to 10 years.
Key quote:
"Air pollution is still the number one environmental health problem in the EU. The good news is that clean air policy works, and our air quality is improving."
— Virginijus Sinkevičius, EU Environment commissioner.
Why this matters:
This update signifies a significant step towards cleaner air in Europe, potentially reducing premature deaths and economic burdens caused by pollution-related health issues. However, ongoing research continues to add to growing evidence that current air pollution laws are inadequate.
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Newsletter
Credit: Jason Woodhead/Flickr
Canada’s tar sands are a much larger source of air pollution than previously thought, study says
The research, published in Science, found the oil operations are releasing vast quantities of compounds that can cause localized air pollution and form damaging particles that can travel across the continent.
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