Why Children Are Especially at Risk
Children are more vulnerable than adults because their lungs are still developing and they breathe more air relative to their body weight. Research has linked exposure to wildfire smoke with:
- Increased risk of asthma attacks and respiratory infections
- Reduced lung function development
- Higher rates of emergency room visits for breathing difficulties
- Possible long-term impacts on immunity and overall health
A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that children exposed to wildfire smoke during critical periods of development showed measurable reductions in lung function compared to those who weren’t exposed.