Story perspectives

Study Links Wildfire Smoke to 24,100 U.S. Deaths Annually

2/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A new Science Advances study finds chronic exposure to wildfire smoke contributes to about 24,100 U.S. deaths annually.
Researchers analyzed mortality data across 3,068 counties, linking PM2.5 exposure to higher deaths from respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases.
Vulnerable populations, especially in rural areas, are more affected.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently does not regulate wildfire smoke PM2.5, underscoring a need for monitoring and regulation.

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Story summary

A new Science Advances study finds chronic exposure to wildfire smoke contributes to about 24,100 U.S. deaths annually.
Researchers analyzed mortality data across 3,068 counties, linking PM2.5 exposure to higher deaths from respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases.
Vulnerable populations, especially in rural areas, are more affected.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently does not regulate wildfire smoke PM2.5, underscoring a need for monitoring and regulation.