PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH OUTCOMES RESULTING FROM WILDFIRE EXPOSURE

Abstract

In recent decades, the United States has experienced a drastic increase in the number of large wildfires annually. Warmer temperatures and drier conditions, both caused by climate change, are resulting in unprecedented wildfire seasons in terms of the frequency of large wildfires and the length of said wildfire seasons.  Furthermore, wildfires have started occurring in regions that previously experienced scarce wildfire activity and are devastating acreage in heavily populated locations. The steadily increasing occurrence of wildfire events is a health concern due to the health outcomes associated with wildfires. Wildfire smoke emits particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, ozone, carbon monoxide, and many other toxic pollutants that are known to be harmful to physical health. Physical health outcomes of wildfire smoke exposure include damage to the lungs, heart, skin, and eyes. Negative outcomes for pregnancies, newborns, infants, and even DNA have also been recorded. Wildfire exposure can have lasting impacts on mental health as well. Individuals affected by wildfires exhibit increased rates of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance abuse. Select groups of the population, such as children, older adults, and many others, are at greater risk of experiencing the health outcomes of wildfire exposure. Health concerns are substantial in regions that are prone to wildfires and especially in highly populated areas of these regions.

Keywords: wildfire, physical health, mental health, particulate matter

Year Manuscript Completed

Spring 2026

Senior Project Advisor

Tricia Jordan, PhD

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Natural Sciences

Document Type

Thesis

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