Work

Wildfire Smoke and Pediatric Lung Health: What the Clinician Needs to Know

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Wildfires are increasing over time due to climate change, resulting in increased human exposure to harmful particulate matter and other toxicants in wildfire smoke (WFS). METHODS: A narrative review of literature indexed in PubMed was performed, focusing on studies of the respiratory health effects of wildfire smoke in children, clinical and public health management strategies, and advocacy opportunities for clinicians. RESULTS: Children are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of WFS, which include exacerbation of asthma and other underlying pulmonary disease, as well as lower respiratory tract infection, sinonasal allergies, and decrements in lung function. As trusted healthcare professionals, pediatric pulmonary providers have a unique opportunity to help children with chronic respiratory disease and their families protect against WFS exposure. CONCLUSIONS: This paper provides a primer on the epidemiology and pathophysiology of WFS as it relates to respiratory health, gives the reader tools to help children and families prevent and manage exposure, and describes opportunities for advocacy to both protect child health and address climate change.

Source: Pediatric Pulmonology

DOI: 10.1002/ppul.71484

Authors: Mary E. Crocker, Jonathan D Cogen

Institutions: Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, Seattle Children's Research Institute

Language: English

Topic: Air Quality and Health Impacts

Subfield: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,740