Do not inhale! How wildfire smoke 'affects the whole body'

Wildfire smoke poses significant long-term health risks to both survivors and firefighters, according to a growing body of research. The primary driver of these health complications is identified as particulate matter, specifically PM2.5, which is capable of affecting the entire human body.

Beyond the immediate destruction of lives and livelihoods caused by wildfires, the inhalation of smoke particles creates lasting physiological damage. Scientific studies continue to investigate the extent of these systemic health impacts, highlighting the enduring nature of the threat posed by smoke exposure.