The first eight weeks: wildfire smoke and fetal development

The earliest weeks of pregnancy are a period of remarkable development. In a matter of weeks, the foundations of the brain, spinal cord, heart, and other major organs begin to take shape. That rapid development also makes this a particularly important period for understanding how environmental exposures may affect fetal health. My research team at … Continue reading The first eight weeks: wildfire smoke and fetal development

Wildfire smoke and pregnancy: what the science tells us and why it matters right now

As massive wildfires send smoke billowing across the mid-Atlantic, northeastern United States, and Midwest, many people are focused on the immediate effects of breathing smoky air: burning eyes, irritated throats, and worsening asthma. But for pregnant women, the risks may run deeper and last longer than the smoke itself. Wildfires are no longer just a … Continue reading Wildfire smoke and pregnancy: what the science tells us and why it matters right now

Wildfire smoke and pregnancy: what expecting parents need to know

As wildfire seasons grow longer and more intense across the United States, a major new study reveals important findings about how smoke exposure affects pregnant women and their babies. The growing threat Wildfires are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change, exposing millions of Americans to smoke-filled air. For pregnant people, this isn't … Continue reading Wildfire smoke and pregnancy: what expecting parents need to know