The article "Clearing the Air: Understanding the Impact of Wildfire Smoke on Asthma and COPD" by May-Lin Wilgus and Maryum Merchant reviews the significant health impacts of wildfire smoke exposure, particularly on respiratory health. Wildfires, which have become more frequent and severe due to climate change and human activities, emit fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that causes lung injury through oxidative stress, inflammation, and airway epithelial compromise. This exposure exacerbates pre-existing asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), leading to increased healthcare utilization, including emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Wildfire smoke may also be associated with asthma onset, long-term lung function impairment, and increased all-cause mortality. Children, older adults, occupationally exposed groups, and possibly women are at higher risk. The article highlights the need for risk mitigation strategies, such as limiting outdoor exposure, using air quality alert systems, and implementing controlled burning to reduce fuel loads. Future research should focus on developing evidence-based risk mitigation strategies, assessing toxic exposures, and understanding long-term health effects.The article "Clearing the Air: Understanding the Impact of Wildfire Smoke on Asthma and COPD" by May-Lin Wilgus and Maryum Merchant reviews the significant health impacts of wildfire smoke exposure, particularly on respiratory health. Wildfires, which have become more frequent and severe due to climate change and human activities, emit fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that causes lung injury through oxidative stress, inflammation, and airway epithelial compromise. This exposure exacerbates pre-existing asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), leading to increased healthcare utilization, including emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Wildfire smoke may also be associated with asthma onset, long-term lung function impairment, and increased all-cause mortality. Children, older adults, occupationally exposed groups, and possibly women are at higher risk. The article highlights the need for risk mitigation strategies, such as limiting outdoor exposure, using air quality alert systems, and implementing controlled burning to reduce fuel loads. Future research should focus on developing evidence-based risk mitigation strategies, assessing toxic exposures, and understanding long-term health effects.