Wildfire Pollution And Cognitive Function: A Hidden Effect Of The Climate Crisis

As global temperature and other symptoms of climate change increase, the threat of wildfires has risen globally. In particular, the western United States has faced detrimental levels of wildfire exposure to particulate matter released by wildfire smoke. Previous research has established the negative respiratory impacts of exposure to wildfire smoke (PM2.5). Further literature has also found associations between pollution and PM2.5 and decreased cognitive function. As such, efforts to establish widespread policy action to decrease exposure to wildfire smoke are paramount to the health of millions.