Wildfire Smoke Puts Toronto's Children at Risk: Expert Warning

Strategic Insights -

As wildfires in northern Ontario push Toronto's air quality to among the worst in the world, experts warn young children are especially at risk of smoke exposure, which can have long-term ramifications for their development. Children's small bodies and developing lungs make them more vulnerable to the immediate health effects of smoke inhalation, and repeated exposure could lead to decreased lung function, an increased risk of lung and brain tumours, and impact on developmental outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

  • Young children are more vulnerable to wildfire smoke due to their small bodies and developing lungs, which inhale more air per kilogram of body mass, increasing airborne pollutant exposure.
  • Babies and the youngest children are most at risk, experiencing similar symptoms to adults but with more intensity, including chest tightness, trouble breathing, sore throat, coughing, burning eyes, and dizziness.
  • Repeated exposure to air pollution could lead to decreased overall lung function, an increased risk of lung and brain tumours, and potential impact on developmental outcomes.
  • N95 masks may not be necessary for most kids, but may be recommended for children with underlying asthma who must be outside, due to fit and usage issues.
  • Keeping kids indoors when possible is the best solution, with experts advising parents to reschedule outdoor activities when the air quality health index is high.
  • Portable air filters or homemade filters can help improve indoor air quality, but adaptation is limited, and sustained exposure to poor air quality is a key indicator of the climate crisis.

Statistics:

  • Toronto's air quality health index reached 10+, or "very high risk," on Monday, indicating a high risk to children's health.
  • Buildings can only keep out about half of all air pollutants, making indoor air quality a concern.
  • Exposure to poor air quality for children could lead to decreased lung function by 3-5% for every pack-year of smoking (according to a study cited in the text).
  • Children with asthma or other chronic health conditions may experience worsening symptoms due to wildfire smoke exposure.

Sources:

  • Dr. Samantha Green, a family physician with Unity Health Toronto
  • Jeffrey Brook, an associate professor at the University of Toronto's Dalla Lana School of Public Health
  • Helen Doyle, chair of the co-ordinating committee at the Canadian Partnership for Children's Health and Environment