Do not inhale! How wildfire smoke 'affects the whole body'
Deutsche Welle
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Wildfire smoke is causing significant long-term health impacts, affecting nearly every system in the human body. Research highlights that particulate matter (PM2.5) in wildfire smoke is particularly dangerous, as it can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation, leading to serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and cancer. Studies show that long-term exposure has contributed to an average of 24,100 deaths annually in the U.S. between 2006 and 2020. Wildfire smoke is especially harmful due to its complex mixture of toxic substances, including heavy metals like mercury and cadmium, as well as carcinogenic compounds such as PFAS, known as "forever chemicals."
The toxicity of wildfire smoke increases over time and distance. As smoke ages, it undergoes chemical reactions that make it more harmful. For example, researchers in Greece found that smoke can become up to four times more toxic within days after a fire. This aged smoke can travel thousands of miles, affecting regions far from the original source. During the 2023 Canadian wildfires, which burned 15 million hectares, PM2.5 pollution spread across North America and reached Europe and Asia.
The health risks are particularly severe for vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women, children, and those with chronic conditions. Wildfire smoke exposure has been linked to premature births, low birth weight, and increased susceptibility to infections and chronic diseases. Researchers emphasize the need for further studies to develop targeted treatments for these groups. As wildfires become more frequent and intense due to climate change, understanding their global health impacts becomes increasingly urgent, highlighting the importance of addressing this growing public health crisis worldwide.
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/23/2026