Nu doar plămânii sunt afectați. Ce efecte are fumul incendiilor forestiere asupra organismului

Researchers warn that smoke from wildfires can impact nearly every part of the body, not just the lungs. Toxic particles can enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, strokes, and cancer. Fine particles like PM2.5 irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and can penetrate deep into the lungs. Chronic exposure is linked to higher stroke risk in older adults and can worsen mental health issues. Pregnant women are also at increased risk, with associations to premature births and low birth weight. Long-term exposure has been linked to over 24,100 deaths annually in the U.S. from 2006 to 2020, with no safe exposure level identified. Common symptoms include cough, sore throat, headaches, and chest pressure. Experts recommend minimizing exposure and using protective masks.