World Earth Day: The Impact of Climate Change on Human Health

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As California's wildfires continue to burn, researchers are warning that climate change's effects on the environment may be putting people's skin at risk.

In a study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, researchers note that wildfires have increased in intensity and frequency in recent years, which "has direct, adverse effects on human health, including skin health," per a press release.

"Air pollutants, such as fine particulate matter can cause inflammation and compromise the skin barrier, which can exacerbate or even trigger skin diseases such as eczema in children and adults," study co-author Shadi Kourosh says.

"The increased incidence and intensity of wildfires, a consequence of climate change, is not just a forestry or air quality concern but has direct, adverse effects on human health, including skin health," Kourosh adds.

Researchers note that people in low-income communities, children and older adults in particular, are more likely to be affected by wildfires, and that "targeted interventions and policies are needed to mitigate these risks."

(California's wine country is dealing with its own wildfires.)

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