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In Addition to Destroying Forests, Wildfires Have Serious Consequences for the Physical and Mental Health and Food Security of Affected Populations
Wildfires pose a growing threat worldwide. They not only impact the environment, but they also directly affect people’s health and the economy. According to the Pan American Health Organization, the consequences of these events are short, medium, and long-term, with effects that extend beyond immediate destruction.
These wildfires are uncontrolled, occur in nature, and are often human-caused. Additionally, climatic conditions, such as high temperatures and dry spells, favor their rapid spread.
During the dry season, the risk of fire spreading uncontrollably increases significantly, making the damage even more severe.
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In the Americas, an increase in the frequency, severity, and duration of wildfires has been observed. They are becoming more intense not only by the number of hectares burned but also by the duration and force with which they advance. These factors have raised growing concerns about their effects on public health.
Extreme Heat Aggravates the Situation
Extreme heat is also an associated factor. A recent report indicates that the population was exposed to average temperatures of 38°C, with some regions exceeding 40°C. Compared to the period between 1986 and 2005, the increase recorded since the 1980s is just over 2°C.
Direct Effects on Physical Health
The effects of wildfires on health are diverse. The smoke and ash released during the burning of vegetation and building materials can cause anything from skin irritation to exacerbation of pre-existing respiratory and cardiac diseases.
In addition, there are direct risks such as burns, physical injuries, heat exhaustion, and, in extreme cases, even death.
Another serious issue is the interruption of medical services. Often, people are forced to evacuate their homes quickly and cannot take their medications. Moreover, wildfires can damage healthcare infrastructure, hindering access to treatments and medications.
Common Symptoms of Smoke Exposure
The smoke from wildfires is a combination of gases and small particles that can harm anyone, even those without prior health issues.
The U.S. CDC has listed several common symptoms in people exposed to smoke: cough, difficulty breathing normally, burning eyes, throat irritation, runny nose, facial sinus irritation, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain, headaches, asthma attacks, fatigue, and rapid heartbeat.
Prolonged Psychological Consequences
In addition to physical problems, the psychological impacts are also significant. Loss of property and forced displacement can result in post-traumatic stress, depression, and insomnia.
Often, these mental health conditions go undiagnosed or untreated, further aggravating the suffering of the victims.
Food Insecurity Risks
Wildfires also affect food security. The destruction of crops can lead to food shortages, increasing the risk of malnutrition and food insecurity in various regions. This situation adds to the challenges faced by displaced populations, who are already dealing with the loss of their homes and routines.
Challenges That Demand Ongoing Attention
In light of the increasing frequency of these events, it becomes even more important to understand and address all their effects, both on physical and mental health, as well as on the economic and social conditions of affected communities.
With information from Tempo.com.
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