The smoke from the wildfires in Canada that blanketed New York City with a burnt-orange hue had devastating health implications, comparable to indoor second-hand smoking before bans were implemented in some states. A study by Rutgers University revealed that the wildfire smoke's physicochemical and toxicological properties were equivalent to the harmful effects of smoking in bars.

During the peak of the smoke, New York City's air quality was the worst among all cities globally, with extremely high levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) far exceeding the World Health Organization's safety limit. PM2.5 includes hazardous particles such as soot, black carbon, ammonia, sodium chloride, mineral dust, and water, which can lead to various respiratory issues and infections.

The researchers found that the longer the smoke lingered in the atmosphere, the more detrimental its impact on health. Inhaling smoke from wildfires or any source poses serious health risks due to free radicals and chemical changes over time.

The study highlights the urgency of addressing climate change and its direct effects on increased wildfires and smoke frequency. New York City Mayor Eric Adams emphasized the need to take action to protect the environment and public health.

Proper air filtration and purification measures are essential to mitigate the health risks posed by wildfire smoke. Investing in efficient air filters, air purifiers, and ventilation systems can help improve indoor air quality during such events. As wildfires are expected to increase in frequency and intensity, understanding the health impacts and implementing preventive measures is crucial for the well-being of communities affected by these environmental crises.

Source: U.S. Air Pollution as Harmful as Second Hand Smoke During Canada Wildfires (msn.com)