Wildfire Smoke and Its Neurological Impact
Importance
The impact of wildfires on human health has risen dramatically in recent years. Smoke emitted from wildfire events contribute significantly to ambient air pollution both locally and distantly. While exposure to wildfire smoke has been associated with elevated respiratory and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, its effects on the neurological system in humans remain less understood. This review examines the current literature available on the topic of wildfire smoke exposure and its impacts on neurological health, identifies knowledge gaps, and suggests future research directions.
Observations
At present, there is limited evidence from human epidemiological and experimental studies specifically investigating the neurological health effects of wildfire smoke exposure. However, exposure to wildfire smoke may be associated with increased morbidity and mortality of neurological disorders, mental health symptoms, and changes in biomarkers related to neurological system. Possible mechanisms underlying the neurological effects induced by wildfire smoke exposure implicate vagal afferent reflexes, axonal transportation of particulate matter (PM), inflammation, epigenetic modifications, as well as gut-brain communication.
Conclusions and Relevance
Exposure to ambient air pollution caused by wildfire smoke may have adverse implications for neurological health. More research is warranted to confirm associations between exposure to wildfire smoke and neurological health, investigate potential biological mechanisms, and inform mitigating strategies. This review highlights an important aspect of the health consequences associated with exposure to wildfire smoke that deserves more attention from researchers and healthcare professionals.