Health risks of air pollution
Protect your health
Take actions to reduce your risk from air pollution, including wildfire smoke.
People most at risk
Some people are more likely to experience symptoms or health effects when exposed to outdoor air pollution because of:
- age
- existing illness
- health conditions
- frequent exposure to outdoor air pollution
- exposure to high pollution levels over a short period of time
Groups at higher risk
Those most at risk are:
- people with existing illness or chronic health conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, or lung and heart conditions
- people aged 65 and older
- infants and young children
- pregnant people
- people that live or work in a place with higher likelihood of exposure, such as near industries or busy roadways
- people who work outdoors, including people working in construction, agriculture or manufacturing
- people involved in strenuous outdoor exercise
- people experiencing housing insecurity, or those with fewer resources to reduce exposure
When everyone is at risk
When air pollution levels are very high, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of age or health status.
Check local air quality
Consult the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) for health recommendations for people at risk and the general public based on the air quality in your location.
Symptoms and health effects
Air pollution can cause a variety of symptoms or health effects that range in severity. Some symptoms or health effects are more common than others.
Mild and common symptoms
- headaches
- a mild cough
- production of mucus
- nose, throat, eye and sinus irritation
Serious but less common symptoms
- dizziness
- wheezing
- chest pains
- severe cough
- asthma attacks
- shortness of breath
- heart palpitations (irregular heartbeat)
When to seek medical help
If you experience any of these more serious symptoms, talk to a health care provider or seek urgent medical attention.
Rare but severe outcomes
In rare cases, exposure to air pollution can lead to:
- stroke
- heart attack
- premature death
If you think you are having a medical emergency, dial 9-1-1 and seek immediate medical care.
Learn more about the health effects of outdoor air pollution.
Outdoor activities, events and sports
Consider air quality when making decisions about an outdoor activity or event, as you would for any type of severe weather.
What organizers and participants should do
Organizers and attendees of outdoor events and activities, especially those who are more at risk, should:
- pay attention to the local AQHI forecast
- monitor symptoms
- modify or limit outdoor activities as necessary
When deciding whether outdoor activities or events, such as sports, outdoor camps, cultural activities, concerts and festivals should take place, consider:
- the type of activity
- the level of exertion involved
- the needs of participants and spectators
If possible, choose locations or venues for outdoor activities and events away from major roads and other sources of air pollution.
Monitoring conditions during events
Coaches, sport officials and outdoor activity organizers should assess conditions using local AQHI forecasts and air quality alerts and weather forecast information. Continue to do so during the event or activity to monitor changing conditions and adjust plans as needed.
When the AQHI is moderate (4 to 6):
- some participants may experience symptoms, especially at-risk individuals during strenuous physical activities
When the AQHI is high (7 to 10) or a yellow air quality alert has been issued:
- reduce the length or intensity level, or reschedule the activity when the event involves at-risk populations participating in strenuous physical exertion
When the AQHI is very high (10+) or an orange air quality alert has been issued:
- cancel or reschedule events and activities