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Wildfires and Birth Outcomes: Evidence From Spain
Risto Conte Keivabu1, Maria Rubio-Cabañez2
1Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, Rostock, Germany.
Demography
|June 15, 2026
Summary
Wildfire smoke exposure during pregnancy negatively impacts infant health, leading to lower birth weight and increased risks of preterm birth. These adverse effects are consistent across all socioeconomic backgrounds.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Reproductive Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Pregnancy exposure to environmental toxins poses risks to fetal development.
- Wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity globally, releasing harmful pollutants.
- Understanding the specific impacts of wildfire smoke on birth outcomes is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between wildfire exposure and adverse birth outcomes in Spain.
- To determine if proximity to wildfires and specific pollutants like PM2.5 influence birth weight and gestational age.
- To assess the uniformity of these impacts across different sociodemographic strata.
Main Methods:
- Utilized geospatial data to map wildfire occurrences and proximity for pregnant individuals in Spain.
- Assessed exposure levels using fire-driven fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations.
- Analyzed birth records to determine birth weight, low birth weight, and preterm birth rates in relation to wildfire exposure.
Main Results:
- Wildfire exposure during pregnancy was significantly associated with lower birth weight.
- Increased risk of both low birth weight and preterm birth was observed with wildfire exposure.
- The detrimental effects on birth outcomes were consistent across diverse sociodemographic groups.
- Both the proximity to wildfires and elevated PM2.5 levels were identified as key contributors to adverse outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Wildfire smoke exposure presents a significant threat to fetal development and birth outcomes in Spain.
- Public health strategies should consider mitigating wildfire smoke exposure during pregnancy.
- Further research is warranted to explore protective measures and long-term health implications.
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