Overview

• Wildfire smoke exposure raises dementia diagnosis odds by 23% per 1 microgram increase in PM2.5 concentration.
• Non-wildfire PM2.5 exposure increases dementia risk by 3% per 3 micrograms increase in concentration.
• The study highlights stronger effects among Asian, Black, Latino, and high-poverty communities.
• Wildfire particles, produced at higher temperatures, contain more toxic chemicals and are smaller than other PM2.5 sources.
• The findings emphasize the need for targeted health resources to mitigate disparities in wildfire smoke exposure.