Where there's fire there's smoke

Yosemite Smoke   (Photo by Dicklyon) 

Smoke from California wildfires spreads throughout the United States.  It’s not just a western concern, it’s a national problem.

Statistics east of the Mississippi show that smoke-related illness is on the rise.  On the East Coast alone, “between 0.3% and 0.6% of emergency department visits” were of that ilk.

What is it about smoke that’s so detrimental?  Along with toxic gases, there are “tiny particles” plus chemicals such as benzene that readily enter the lungs.  These have been linked to asthma, cancer and heart disease.

Keeping the public informed about regional smoke levels is one way to offset these effects.  People can then protect themselves with air purifiers, masks, and by limiting outdoor activities.

Resources

https://www.msn.com/en-sg/news/other/western-wildfires-are-making-easterners-sick-u-s-study/ar-AAPeGEU?ocid=uxbndlbing