Overview
- The University of Maryland team studied June 2023 smoke events and found 18–20% more cardiopulmonary visits on six identified hotspot days.
- Analysis of electronic health records across the University of Maryland Medical System’s 12 hospitals estimated about $2.4 million in direct costs during those six days.
- Researchers tied the rise in visits to increases in PM2.5, the fine particulate matter that can inflame lungs and stress the heart when inhaled.
- Investigators warned that health effects can persist after visible smoke clears and said outreach should focus on older adults, people with lung or heart disease, and other vulnerable groups.
- Renewed smoke in Baltimore on July 17, 2026 has prompted calls for hospitals and public health officials to prepare measures such as air filtration, advance warnings, and targeted outreach to reduce future strain.