Pregnant Women Who Smoke May Be at Greater Risk of Adverse Effects from Bushfires

Bushfires substantially increase the environmental health risks for people living in affected areas, especially the disadvantaged (e.g., those experiencing health inequities due to their socio-economic status, racial/ethnic backgrounds, geographic location and/or sexual orientation) and those with pre-existing health conditions. Pregnant women exposed to bushfire smoke are at a greater risk of adverse pregnancy and foetal outcomes, especially if they smoke tobacco, which may compound the toxic impacts. Bushfires may also exacerbate mental stress, leading to an increase in smoking. There are gaps in the evidence and more research is required on the combined effect of bushfire smoke and tobacco smoke on pregnant populations.

Automated summary

Bushfires pose significant environmental health risks for residents in affected areas, particularly disadvantaged individuals and those with pre-existing health conditions, such as pregnant women. There is currently a lack of evidence on the combined impact of bushfire smoke and tobacco smoke on pregnant populations, indicating the need for further research.