The Los Angeles wildfires that scorched over 40,000 acres in January took nearly a month to contain, but doctors caution that the health consequences are just beginning and may persist for years. While all wildfires produce particulate matter and ash, those burning in urban areas—like the recent Southern California blazes—release additional toxic elements from burning homes, vehicles, and infrastructure, posing serious risks to public health.
Dr. Anthony Gerber, a pulmonologist at National Jewish Health in Denver, warns that children and individuals with respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable to toxins such as formaldehyde, asbestos, cadmium, and heavy metals, which can be released from old buildings and cars. The complexity of these urban fire emissions makes it difficult for doctors to determine the exact composition of harmful particulates, heightening concerns about their long-term effects.
While immediate reactions like asthma flares are well-documented, Gerber stresses the need to focus on chronic exposure risks, particularly as wildfire seasons grow longer due to climate change. He estimates that the West Coast could experience one to two months of poor air quality per year from wildfire smoke—enough to cause long-term damage to lung function and increase the risks of dementia, cardiovascular disease, and other serious health conditions. Read Here
News Credit: Inside Climate News
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