Study: Wildfire smoke may be worse for your brain than other air pollution
"All hands on deck" to battle Park Fire
The largest wildfire currently burning in California grew to more than 350,000 acres on Sunday, but there is renewed hope as weather cools down and containment increases. As of Sunday afternoon, Cal Fire officials say the Park Fire is about 12% contained. Fresno Fire's Deputy Fire Marshal Jay Tracy joins LiveNOW from FOX.
LOS ANGELES - Recent research suggests that wildfire smoke could have a more detrimental impact on brain health than other forms of air pollution. The findings were presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Philadelphia.
What are the health risks associated with wildfire smoke?
Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter, or PM2.5, which is about 30 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair.
These tiny particles can be inhaled deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, exacerbating heart and lung diseases. The new study adds to evidence suggesting PM2.5 may also contribute to dementia.
How was the study conducted?
Researchers from the universities of Washington and Pennsylvania analyzed health records of 1.2 million older adults in Southern California from 2009 to 2019. They estimated residential exposure to PM2.5 from wildfire smoke and other sources over three years.
The study found that the odds of a new dementia diagnosis increased by about 21% for every 1 microgram increase in wildfire-related PM2.5 concentration. In comparison, the risk increased by only 3% for every 3 microgram increase in PM2.5 from non-wildfire sources.
Why might wildfire smoke be more harmful to the brain?
It is not yet clear why wildfire smoke particles might be more harmful than other types of air pollution. However, the study's findings highlight the need for further research, especially as wildfires become more frequent.
Maria Carrillo, the Alzheimer’s Association’s chief science officer, told the Associated Press that lower-income populations are at higher risk for Alzheimer’s and may find it harder to avoid unhealthy air. Health warnings often advise staying indoors during poor air quality, but many people cannot afford to do so or work outdoors.
What can be done to protect brain health from wildfire smoke?
While staying indoors when air quality is poor is recommended, researchers suggest more comprehensive measures are needed to protect vulnerable populations from the increasing threat of wildfires and their associated health risks.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.