Poor Air Quality Statement for Central Alberta

EDMONTON, ALBERTA (January 10, 2023) – A special poor air quality statement has been issued and it impacts the communities in central Alberta due to stagnant weather conditions. Exposure to air pollutants can irritate the lungs, cause inflammation, alter immune function, and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections. A recent study found that long-term exposure to outdoor air pollution significantly negatively impacts lung function, especially for those living with lung disease.

“People with lung conditions such as asthma and COPD can be especially vulnerable to poor air quality.”

“One in five Canadians suffer from some form of lung disease, so anything external like air pollutants, can exacerbate their lung issues and trigger, in the case of asthma, asthma attacks. In the case of COPD, it can trigger COPD attacks, worsening symptoms,”

People with lung disease are at a higher risk when exposed to air pollution. To limit the risk of exposure, people with lung conditions are encouraged to stay indoors, watch

Information on reducing health risks and air quality resources are available on the Alberta Lung website.

To locate current and forecast Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) values, visit https://weather.gc.ca/airquality/pages/index_e.html.