Study Finds Wildfire Smoke Causes 41,000 Annual Deaths In U.S.

Wildfire smoke kills more than 41,000 Americans annually and could become the nation’s deadliest climate threat by 2050, according to new research. The study projects smoke-related deaths will increase by 26,500 to 30,000 yearly by midcentury, rising 64% to 73% from current levels. “Wildfire smoke is a much larger health risk than we might have understood previously,” said the study author. Researchers used satellite tracking and climate models to estimate deaths. Tiny smoke particles penetrate lungs and bloodstream, increasing risks of asthma, lung cancer, preterm birth, miscarriage and heart disease. “These results imply, if anything, wildfire smoke may be more toxic” than other pollution forms, said University of Washington’s Dr. Joel Kaufman. The findings suggest smoke is reversing decades of Clean Air Act progress, particularly in western states. (Story URL)