University of Rochester researchers are launching an investigation into the potential long-term health effects of smoke from Canadian wildfires, which have caused days of diminished air quality in Western New York and other parts of the United States. The team, which specializes in studying the potential impacts of air pollution on human and reproductive health, believes this widespread smoke exposure could eventually lead to an increase in health problems.
Epidemiologists at the University of Rochester Medical Center, expressed concern regarding the heightened levels of wood smoke in the air. “Generally, Rochester is a clean city with low air pollution levels, yet we still see health effects,” Rich told 13WHAM-TV.
Health experts are advising the public to follow recommended guidelines on poor air quality days. Precautions include remaining indoors when possible and wearing a mask if required to spend extended periods outdoors. This advice is especially pertinent as researchers continue to examine the potential health implications of the recent smoke pollution.
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