Breathing in smoke from wildfires can have health effects comparable to smoking cigarettes, according to health professionals. As wildfire smoke blankets areas across the United States, the air quality index (AQI) serves as a measure of pollution levels, with higher numbers indicating greater health concerns.

When the AQI reaches 150, the air quality is considered unhealthy for everyone. A 2020 study from the Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment found that prolonged exposure to smoke causing an AQI of 150 for several days is equivalent to smoking seven cigarettes daily. While this study assumed continuous outdoor exposure, researchers noted that smoke can infiltrate indoor spaces.

Dr. Afif El-Hasan, a medical spokesperson for the American Lung Association, stated that the comparison between cigarette and wildfire smoke is valid due to the small size of pollutant particles. These particles, containing substances like soot, chemicals, and dust, can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in the lungs and other body parts. "You’re basically dealing with the inhaling of vegetation, like tobacco leaves in the cigarette, so it’s true," El-Hasan said. "Because you’re burning an organic substance, both of them have many different chemicals that are being given off. Some of them irritate the lungs immediately, and some are carcinogens."

Symptoms of smoke inhalation can include coughing, difficulty breathing, headaches, and chest pain. Brady Scott, a fellow of the American Association for Respiratory Care, echoed these concerns, emphasizing that while the specific toxins may differ, inhaling smoke harms lung health. "You walk into a room where everyone is smoking, you’re going to start coughing right away. It’s the same with this," El-Hasan added.

Long-Term Health Impacts

Long-term effects are also similar, particularly for vulnerable populations. Smoking is known to damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attacks. Wildfire smoke has been linked to a 40% increase in stroke risk for individuals over 65, as well as an increased rate of heart attacks.

Wildfire smoke is composed of water vapor, carbon monoxide, and fine particulate matter, including acids, chemicals, soot, and metals. These fine particles, which constitute 90% of wildfire smoke pollutants, are small enough to bypass the nose and throat and enter the lungs and bloodstream. The burning of organic materials and potentially chemicals like plastics in wildfires can contribute to a range of health issues.

Respiratory System Effects

In the lungs, these fine particles can lead to persistent coughing, phlegm production, wheezing, and reduced lung function. They can also impair the body's ability to clear foreign materials like viruses and bacteria, potentially increasing the risk of bronchitis and exacerbating asthma symptoms. For individuals with pre-existing lung conditions like asthma or cardiovascular disease, the effects can be more severe.

While the lungs can filter some particles, and the liver can neutralize some chemicals, recovery can be more challenging for sensitive groups, including children, pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with chronic health conditions. Wildfire smoke particles can linger in the air and lungs for extended periods, even after the fires have been extinguished.

Protecting Yourself

Limiting exposure to smoke is the most effective protective measure. This can involve staying indoors, using air filters, and wearing N95 masks when venturing outside, especially for those with respiratory sensitivities. Individuals with chronic lung or heart disease should ensure they have adequate medication on hand and are following their prescribed treatment plans.