What’s different, and worse, about the smoke from the L.A. fires

Los Angeles is no stranger to poor air quality, but the recent fires scorching the area are causing a new level of concern due to the toxic mix of substances in the smoke. While wildfires are known to release harmful pollutants, the fires in L.A. are not only burning trees and vegetation but also buildings, vehicles, electronics, plastics, and other components of the urban environment.

The health risks associated with this toxic mix of smoke are significant. In the short term, wildfire smoke inflames the lungs and can lead to a range of symptoms including chest tightness, wheezing, rapid heartbeat, and fatigue. The fine particulate matter in the smoke can travel deep into the lungs and cause irritation to the eyes and throat.

Dr. Chris Carlsten, a professor of medicine, warns that wildfire smoke can have effects beyond the lungs, impacting the blood and potentially increasing the risk of heart issues. Inflammation caused by smoke in the lungs can lead to inflammatory cells entering the bloodstream and affecting other organs, including the brain.

Researchers are just beginning to study the effects of urban fires combined with wildfire smoke, as this combination is rare. Dr. John Balmes, a professor emeritus, highlights the release of benzene, a cancer-causing agent, from synthetic materials in urban wildfires. The health effects of exposure to wildfire smoke over multiple seasons are also a new area of study.

Certain populations are more susceptible to the effects of wildfire smoke. People with asthma, COPD, and other lung diseases are at higher risk of exacerbations, as are older adults and children. Pregnant women are also vulnerable to the pollutants in wildfire smoke, which can affect the fetus.

The long-term health effects of wildfire smoke have been studied in wildland firefighters, who are often exposed without proper breathing equipment. Studies have shown an increased risk of mortality from heart disease, cardiovascular disease, and lung cancer associated with chronic exposure to fine particulate matter from wildfires.

As the fires in L.A. continue to burn, it is crucial for residents to take precautions to protect their health. Staying indoors, using air purifiers, and keeping medications up to date are important steps to minimize the risks associated with the toxic smoke. Additionally, ongoing research is needed to fully understand the long-term health impacts of these unprecedented fires.