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More than 400 indirect deaths linked to LA wildfires, study suggests

August 7, 2025

A recent study published in JAMA estimates that more than 400 additional deaths are linked to the Los Angeles wildfires from January 2024, significantly exceeding the official death toll of 31. Researchers calculated this figure by comparing mortality data during the wildfire period (January 5-February 1) with previous years, revealing nearly 7% more deaths attributable to both direct and indirect causes. These indirect deaths resulted from exacerbated lung and heart conditions, delayed healthcare for chronic conditions, and other fire-related disruptions.

Who is affected

  • Los Angeles area residents
  • People with lung and heart conditions
  • Patients requiring regular medical treatments (dialysis and cancer patients)
  • Older people, pregnant women, young children
  • Individuals with underlying health conditions like heart disease or asthma
  • Healthy adults exposed to wildfire smoke

What action is being taken

  • Researchers are studying and publishing findings on the full health impacts of wildfires beyond official death counts
  • Scientists are investigating the relationship between wildfire smoke exposure and health effects
  • Researchers are conducting comparative studies of mortality data during and after wildfire periods
  • Researchers are monitoring lung function and mental health impacts in wildfire-affected populations

Why it matters

  • The actual health impact of wildfires is significantly greater than official death tolls suggest
  • Wildfire smoke has been found to be four times more toxic than other types of pollution
  • Climate change is increasing the frequency of wildfires, creating growing public health concerns
  • Both physical and mental health consequences persist months after wildfire events
  • Current surveillance methods may undercount the true mortality impact of climate disasters
  • Healthcare systems can become overwhelmed during wildfire emergencies, causing additional indirect deaths

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC