Expanding Awareness of Air Quality and Health Impacts in the Clinical Setting

Early, Caitlin

Item

Expanding Awareness of Air Quality and Health Impacts in the Clinical Setting

Early, Caitlin

License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Abstract

Smoke from Canadian wildfires has greatly impacted the air quality in Vermont this year, 2023. Poor air quality can lead to an increase in inflammatory reactions in the body, for example increasing asthma and COPD exacerbations and causing symptoms in those with cardiovascular disease. This project aimed to improve awareness of the negative health impacts of poor air quality, particularly for those patients with existing lung and heart disease, those of older age, and children. This intervention sparked conversation between patients and providers to discuss symptoms, medication refills, and recommendations for poor air quality days. With lines of communication open and as more research on the impacts of wildfire smoke is completed, providers at the Hinesburg Family Medicine Clinic will be able to share more information and guidelines with their patients.