preterm births

A study analyzing data from 2003 to 2019 found that wildfire smoke has become the primary pollutant affecting pregnancies in the U.S., contributing to risks like low birth weight and preterm births. While pollution from cars and industry has declined, increasing wildfire smoke has offset these gains, with 65% of pollution days exceeding national standards attributed to wildfires.

A 16-year study (2003–2019) found wildfire smoke has become the primary pollutant affecting pregnancy outcomes, offsetting declines in pollution from cars and industry. The research linked increased wildfire smoke to risks like low birth weight and preterm births, with 65% of days exceeding air quality standards attributed to wildfires. The study analyzed 64.5 million pregnancies across 2,800 U.S. counties, noting significant pollution increases even in regions not typically associated with wildfires.

The article argues that addressing poverty can prevent preterm births and newborn deaths. Dr. Nigel Paneth is affiliated with Michigan State University's College of Human Medicine.