COPD patients lack critical health information during major wildfire events

Wildfire smoke can trigger breathing problems and flare-ups for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), yet many people are not receiving the trusted health information they need to stay safe, according to a new study in the May 2026 issue of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases: Journal of the COPD Foundation, a peer-reviewed, open access journal.

Wildfire smoke negatively affects air quality across the United States and is a leading cause of pollution. Wildfire smoke is especially dangerous for people with COPD, often triggering breathing difficulties and exacerbations. COPD, which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, affects more than 30 million Americans and is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide.

In this new study, researchers interviewed people living with COPD who were enrolled in Kaiser Permanente Northern California and lived near significant wildfire events in the past to explore participants' understanding of wildfire smoke, protective behaviors, and information sources.

Interview responses revealed most people rely on smartphone apps and online information for air quality information; have not had conversations with their doctors about how air quality negatively affects their health; lack knowledge about mitigation strategies (indoor air purifiers, vehicle air recirculation button); and prefer real-time guidance from their health care team when air quality becomes a health risk.

Some patients are already monitoring air quality but not all. We need to make sure that people with COPD receive accurate, actionable guidance from trusted sources in real-time so they can take actions to protect themselves. Patient-centered approaches to wildfire preparedness can help the most vulnerable people prepare for and respond to air quality events before their symptoms get worse."

Laura C. Myers, M.D., MPH, of Kaiser Permanente Northern California and senior author of the study