In January 2025, a devastating wildfire in Los Angeles, California, caused massive economic damage and posed a significant threat to public respiratory health. As climate change accelerates, the frequency and intensity of wildfires have raised significant global concern due to their profound impact on respiratory health. Wildfire smoke contains high concentrations of ambient air pollutants, particularly particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), ozone (O3) and various toxic compounds. Among these, wildfire-related PM is particularly harmful due to its ability to penetrate deep into the lower respiratory tract and alveoli, triggering more oxidative and inflammatory response, and contribute to the onset and exacerbation of respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Studies show that short-term exposure to wildfire smoke has been associated with acute exacerbations of asthma, COPD, and pneumonia, resulting in increased mortality and healthcare utilization. Long-term exposure may contribute to the development and progression of COPD and is potentially associated with an increased risk of lung cancer and mortality. These findings highlight the serious threat it poses to both individual and public health, contributing to increased morbidity, mortality, and associated socio-economic costs. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of recent research on the respiratory health effects associated with wildfire smoke exposure. By presenting these findings, this review aims to inform healthcare professionals and public health policymakers, facilitating evidence-based strategies for clinical care, public health education, and disaster preparedness in the light of growing threat posed by wildfires.
Gu et al. (Tue,) studied this question.