New research suggests that wildfire smoke may increase the risk of premature birth, adding another serious health concern beyond its effects on the lungs. A large study by the University of Washington examined more than 20,000 births across the U.S. between 2006 and 2020 and found that pregnant individuals exposed to wildfire smoke were more likely to deliver early. The findings were published Monday in The Lancet Planetary Health.
Researchers focused on fine particle pollution from wildfires, known as PM2.5, and measured both frequency and intensity of exposure during pregnancy. The study found that the highest risk occurred during the second trimester, particularly around week 21, and that later-stage pregnancies were most affected by high levels of smoke above 10 micrograms per cubic meter. The strongest associations were observed in the Western U.S., where wildfires have grown more frequent and intense. Experts note that these tiny particles can enter the bloodstream and reach the placenta or fetus, potentially interfering with fetal development. The study underscores the need for public health measures and guidance to help pregnant individuals protect themselves during wildfire events, highlighting them as a particularly vulnerable group.
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