Wildfire Smoke Caused A Spike In Hospital Visits

A recent study highlights the severe impact of smoke pollution on the West Coast, particularly in Oregon and California. The smoke led to increased emergency room visits and potentially thousands of premature deaths among older adults. Major cities in Oregon experienced record levels of smoke pollution, causing a significant rise in asthma-like symptoms. Researchers estimate that around 3,000 people over 65 in California may have died prematurely due to the smoke.

What was the primary cause of increased emergency room visits on the West Coast last month?

• Flooding

• A new virus outbreak

• Smoke pollution

• A heatwave

During the peak of smoke pollution in Oregon, what proportion of people reported asthma-like symptoms?

• 1 in 15

• 1 in 5

• 1 in 10

• 1 in 20

What was the effect of smoke pollution on emergency department visits in Oregon?

• Visits tripled

• Visits doubled

• Visits remained the same

• Visits decreased

According to Stanford University researchers, how many older adults in California may have died prematurely due to smoke exposure?

• Around 3,000

• Around 2,000

• Around 1,000

• Around 4,000

What age group was primarily affected by premature deaths due to smoke in California?

• Over 65

• 18-35

• Under 18

• 36-50