Latest news with #UnityHealthToronto
Hamilton Spectator
31-07-2025
- Health
- Hamilton Spectator
Children are at greater risk of wildfire smoke, and it could affect their development. Here's what parents need to know
Toronto once again has some of the worst air quality in the world this summer as of Thursday morning, with wildfire smoke blowing into the city from the Prairies. Environment Canada has issued a special statement urging Torontonians to stay inside — and experts say this is doubly important for children, who are among those at greatest risk of smoke exposure. Aside from being more vulnerable to the immediate health effects of smoke inhalation, new research suggests repeated exposure to air pollution could have long-term ramifications for their development. With the city once again blanketed in wildfire smoke, experts are warning that long-term exposure to air pollution can lead to higher risk of With the city once again blanketed in wildfire smoke, experts are warning that long-term exposure to air pollution can lead to higher risk of Here's why, and what parents can do to keep their kids safe. It mainly has to do with their small bodies, explained Dr. Samantha Green, a family physician with Unity Health Toronto. Given their size, young children inhale more air per kilogram of body mass, meaning more airborne pollutants in proportion to their bodies. And because their lungs are still developing, the organ is more susceptible to damage. That means the younger one is, the more they may be affected. 'Babies and the youngest children are most at risk,' Green explained. In the short term, kids might experience similar symptoms to adults, just more intense, Green said. Think chest tightness, trouble breathing, sore throat, coughing, burning eyes or dizziness. 'In children who have asthma, or allergies, or other chronic health conditions, they may experience worsening in their underlying (conditions),' Green continued. The scarfs were issued after veteran firefighters won a battle to get presumptive illness coverage due to chronic smoke exposure. The scarfs were issued after veteran firefighters won a battle to get presumptive illness coverage due to chronic smoke exposure. But in the long run, emerging research suggests repeated exposure could potentially lead to decreased overall lung function, an increased risk of lung and brain tumours, and potential impact on developmental outcomes, according to Green. 'The greater time spent experiencing the poor air quality and the more repeated exposures, the worse the risk,' she continued. The answer is 'not really,' according to Jeffrey Brook, an associate professor at the University of Toronto's Dalla Lana School of Public Health. It's true that N95 masks can help catch some of the harmful particles released in wildfire smoke, but given the time-limited nature of this event, Brook and other experts say they aren't necessary. 'We don't want people to panic,' he said. 'The level that we're seeing here are what children are dealing with day in and day out in other countries in the world … It makes sense to be prudent, but not to panic.' Green added that while masks might catch particulate matter, they won't keep us safe from the other dangerous chemicals in smoke, such as carbon monoxide, ammonia, ozone and nitrogen dioxide. Torontonians are being urged to limit their time outside as smoke blows into the city. But smoke will still leak inside, experts say. Torontonians are being urged to limit their time outside as smoke blows into the city. But smoke will still leak inside, experts say. 'In children, N95 masks often don't fit properly, often aren't worn properly and really are not a solution,' Green said. 'I think for a child with underlying asthma, who must be outside, I would recommend wearing an N95 mask. But really, as much as possible, we should be keeping all children inside.' The best solution, according to experts, is to keep your kids indoors when it's smoky out. On Thursday morning, Toronto's air quality health index was ranked eight out of ten , or 'high risk.' Parents should consider rescheduling outdoor activities at any level higher than a seven, according to Helen Doyle, chair of the co-ordinating committee at the Canadian Partnership for Children's Health and Environment. Experts previously told the Star most buildings can only keep out about half of all air pollutants , but it's better than having kids outside without protection. Otherwise, Doyle advises parents to keep an eye on the air quality health index, and check for any updates as they come. She notes that apps like WeatherCAN are able to alert you once the index reaches a certain level. If possible, keep your windows closed and the air-conditioning on if you have the option. Doyle says you can also consider purchasing a portable air filter, or making your own. The Star previously outlined how to make an affordable filter using a fan, air filters, duct tape and cardboard. 'We can only adapt so much and this is such a good example of where adaptation is not ideal,' Green said. 'We need to keep children indoors during the summer and we need to refrain from everyday childhood activities like going swimming in Lake Ontario or playing on a playground.' The fact we're being pushed to do so is 'key evidence of the climate crisis, and unfortunately, things will continue to get worse year over year from here on in unless we stop burning fossil fuels,' Green finished.
Vancouver Sun
16-07-2025
- Health
- Vancouver Sun
What you need to know to understand air quality warnings in Canada
Wildfires are becoming more common in Canada and that means more smoke and air quality warnings. Here's what you need to know about air quality to better understand how it could impact your health and outdoor activities. In Canada, the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is a scale developed to help people understand what the current air quality means for your health. It is an initiative among Environment Canada, Health Canada and the provincial governments. 'When we look at the AQHI, it's really an indication of the impact of the air quality on our health,' said Dr. Samantha Green, a family physician at Unity Health Toronto. Start your day with a roundup of B.C.-focused news and opinion. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Sunrise will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. The index takes into consideration three pollutants to determine the air quality. First, ground-level ozone, which is formed by photo-chemical reactions in the atmosphere. Second, particulate matter, which can be emitted by vehicles, industries and forest fires, forming a mix of particles that we can inhale. Finally, nitrogen dioxide comes from vehicle emissions and power plants that rely on fossil fuels, and this can normally be found near high-traffic roads. Those three pollutant levels contribute to how good or bad the air quality is in a certain area. 'The AQHI is measured in different air monitoring stations, and can provide a very accurate measurement in real time of the air quality in a particular location and it can guide us in making decisions about spending time outdoors and activity levels,' said Green. The bigger the number, the higher risk it has to your health. When the AQHI is low (1-3) or moderate (4-6), outdoor activities can continue as normal, and should only be modified if the person feels symptoms like coughing, for example. When the levels get a bit higher, between 7 and 10, it is advised to reconsider strenuous outdoor activities if you're already experiencing symptoms. Whenever the levels get higher than 10, it is recommended that people reduce or reconsider strenuous outdoor activities, especially if they have symptoms. People at higher risk and children should reconsider outdoor activities when the level is seven and above and avoid the outdoors when the level is above 10, according to Air Quality Ontario. People at a higher risk of the impacts of air quality include , but are not limited to: seniors, pregnant people, children, and people with existing illnesses or health conditions, like cancer, diabetes, lung or heart conditions, and other chronic conditions. The immediate health impacts of poor air quality can include difficulty breathing, eye and throat irritation, cough, wheezing and chest tightness, and it can worsen any pre-existing symptoms of respiratory conditions, such as asthma. When it comes to long-term impacts, there's still research to be done on the impact of exposure to wildfire smoke. However, preliminary results show 'an impact on lung function, a slight increased risk of lung cancer, brain tumours, potential increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia, and a potential effect on childhood development and developmental disorders of childhood,' said Green. 'Wildfire smoke likely has negative health impacts on all body systems and we should avoid repeated and long term exposure,' said Green. On July 14, until 11 a.m., Toronto had an AQHI of 10, meaning it was better to stay indoors, while in Halifax, the AQHI was 2, an ideal air quality for outdoor activities. The poor air quality in many parts of the country, like Ontario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, was caused mainly by the forest fires over Northern Ontario and the Prairies. 'An N95 mask will filter out a large portion of the particulate matter. It's not going to filter out those other air pollutants, like nitrogen dioxide and ozone and it's not a long term solution,' Green said. However, a surgical mask won't help, only an N95 worn correctly. 'If someone must be outside and the AQHI is high, I would say, sure, yes, it will protect you if you wear an N95 mask,' said Green. Our website is the place for the latest breaking news, exclusive scoops, longreads and provocative commentary. Please bookmark and sign up for our newsletters here .
Toronto Star
30-06-2025
- Health
- Toronto Star
Primary care in Canada is suffering and doctors want input on how to fix it
By Dr. Tara Kiran is a family physician and researcher at St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, and the Fidani Chair in Improvement and Innovation at the University of Toronto. She is the national lead for OurCare and host of the podcast Primary Focus. I still remember the hope I felt in 2002 when I chose to become a family doctor. It wasn't the most popular career path in medical school, but for me, it was a calling — the chance to build lasting relationships with patients and be there through every stage of life. More than two decades later, it's heartbreaking to see so many people in Canada still struggle to get that kind of care.
CBC
24-06-2025
- Climate
- CBC
Scorching temperatures keep hammering GTA, heat warning expected to end Tuesday night
The Greater Toronto Area is sweltering through another day of blistering heat, but Environment Canada says the region should see some relief Tuesday night. Daytime highs are forecast to be between 30 and 35 C, with humidex values expected to range between 40 and 45, according to the federal weather agency. "We need to make sure that all of us, especially the most vulnerable, have access to cool indoor spaces," said Dr. Samantha Green, a family physician at Unity Health Toronto who researches heat and health. Green said as outdoor temperature increases, the body needs to do everything it can to maintain an internal temperature of 37 degrees — part of homeostasis, which is the body's way of keeping internal conditions stable. "Our heat beats faster, we start to breathe faster and we also start to sweat. The body is focused on maintaining that homeostasis and we end up not thinking straight," she said in an interview with CBC Radio's Metro Morning on Tuesday. Tuesday's heat warning is in effect for the following areas: Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Markham, Newmarket, Georgina, northern York Region, Durham Region, Pickering, Oshawa, Uxbridge, Beaverton, Simcoe, Halton Hills, and Milton. There is also a 40 per cent risk of thunderstorms in Toronto Tuesday from noon until 8 p.m., according to Environment Canada. Monday's extreme heat broke a temperature record at Pearson International Airport, the weather agency said. Temperatures reached 35.8 C at Pearson airport on Monday afternoon, said Kristina Kretchman, meteorologist with Environment Canada. The previous record of 32.8 C was set on June 23, 1921. Watch for symptoms of heat stroke Environment Canada is advising people to limit exposure to sun and heat by planning activities during the coolest parts of the day, as well as wearing a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight, light-coloured, loose fitting clothing. People are advised to watch for symptoms of heat stroke, which is a medical emergency, in themselves and others. Symptoms can include red and hot skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion and change in consciousness. "While you wait for medical attention, try to cool the person by moving them to a cool place, removing extra clothing, applying cold water or ice packs around the body," Environment Canada said in Tuesday's warning. WATCH | GTA students, parents react to heat wave on Monday: GTA blasted with wave of extreme heat 21 hours ago Duration 2:38 The weather agency also advised people to drink water often, even before feeling thirsty, and close blinds and open windows if the outside is cooler than inside. "If your living space is hot, move to a cool public space such as a cooling centre, community centre, library or shaded park," the heat warning says. People are also advised to check in regularly on those at greater risk of heat illness, including the elderly and those living alone. Signs of heat exhaustion may include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine and intense fatigue. If you experience these symptoms, Environment Canada advises stopping your activity and drinking water.
Global News
20-06-2025
- Climate
- Global News
Extreme heat can turn dangerous fast. Who is most vulnerable?
Doctors and health-care experts are warning Canadians to not only look after themselves but also check on others who could be vulnerable as large parts of central Canada face a sweltering heat wave. Global News chief meteorologist Anthony Farnell says a large heat ridge or dome will build over the Ohio Valley in the U.S. and expand into southeastern Canada by the end of the weekend. Temperatures are expected to reach the low to mid-30s C and the humidex could make that feel much higher, with humidex readings potentially into the mid-40s. When heat hits those levels, the body has to work harder to keep itself cool. 'The hypothalamus acts as the thermostat and sends signals to the heart to start beating faster, sends signals to our body to breathe a little faster and that helps the blood flow to the extremities so that we can dissipate heat through radiant heat loss,' said Dr. Samantha Green, a family physician at Unity Health Toronto with expertise in climate change and health. Story continues below advertisement 'It also sends signals so that we can cool down through evaporative cooling through sweating.' What does extreme heat do to your body? Prolonged exposure to heat can impact the human body in a variety of ways. One of the most common is heat exhaustion, which can lead to heat stroke. Heat exhaustion is characterized by headache, dizziness, extreme thirst, heavy sweating, muscle cramps and nausea and vomiting, according to Health Canada, and people are advised to immediately move to a cool place and drink water if experiencing these symptoms. If left untreated, that exhaustion can become heat stroke, which is defined by Johns Hopkins Medicine as the body being overwhelmed by excessive heat. Those suffering from heat stroke often have an internal temperature of 40 C or higher, warm, dry skin, confusion and nausea, and it can lead to worse conditions, including seizures, coma and even death. Story continues below advertisement While people will keep an eye on the temperature, studies show that people should also be aware of the 'wet bulb' temperature — when both humidity and air temperatures are high, it can be harder to shed heat and keep yourself cool. A 2010 study found that a wet-bulb temperature of 35 C that lasts longer than six hours could cause serious health impacts or even death. Get weekly health news Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday. Sign up for weekly health newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy A study in the Journal of Applied Physiology in 2022 found that at 100 per cent humidity, the threshold could be as low as 31 C, while at 38 C, just 60 per cent humidity could be too much for the body. 4:47 Summer can be a dangerous time for our furry friends If you are suffering from heat stroke or you notice someone with similar symptoms, move to a cool place to rest and call 911, as it is a life-threatening medical emergency. Story continues below advertisement 'If you don't feel well from the heat, seek medical attention or call 911. Don't be afraid to ask for help,' said Caroline Metz, managing director of climate resilience and health at the Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation at the University of Waterloo. Vulnerable populations, such as youth and older adults or those with chronic conditions, may find it more difficult to beat the heat. Who's most at risk? Nemours Children's Health in the U.S. notes that children's bodies are still developing and may sweat at a lower rate than adults and start sweating at a higher temperature, putting them more at risk of heat-related illness. Older adults face higher risks as they may have trouble accessing cool spaces due to mobility or transportation challenges, and those living alone may be more vulnerable as a result, according to B.C. Interior Health. Story continues below advertisement Older adults, as well as other Canadians, may also have chronic underlying health conditions or be taking medication that could interfere with the body's ability to stay cool. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that those with these conditions may be less likely to respond to changes in temperature, and that those with heart disease, mental illness and obesity have a higher risk of heat-related illness. 4:08 Summer heat can be dangerous for seniors 'It's also why people with chronic health conditions are more at risk of developing heat exhaustion, heat stroke, where the body's natural cooling mechanisms break down and the core body temperature exceeds 40 degrees,' Green said. 'That's where we end up with massive inflammation and failure of organs in the body.' People taking chronic medications can also be affected. Green said beta blockers, for example, prevent the heart from beating faster in response to heat and keep the body from naturally being able to cool down. Story continues below advertisement It's not just health conditions or age that can pose vulnerabilities, however. 'Anybody who's working outside or people experiencing homelessness, they're more exposed to heat and that's a group or a population that's more at risk,' Metz said. How to protect yourself and others Metz notes that during heat waves, it's important for people to watch out for others and check in on neighbours because those living alone or socially isolated can also be vulnerable to heat. A B.C. coroner's report following the 2023 heat dome noted that 98 per cent of the 619 deaths identified as being related to heat occurred indoors, with 56 per cent of those who died living alone. 'Social cohesion or social connectedness has been shown to be a very important factor for resilience and for health during heat waves,' Metz said. Story continues below advertisement 'In fact, in some cultures where there are multi-generational families living together, it's just very natural for people to care about others … so they don't often experience the same kind of situation that we might have here in North America, where we have one generation living in a household. 'The ability to reach out, call someone, or stop by has been shown to greatly support health and well-being for people who are isolated.' She added that older adults and those living alone should reach out to other people to let them know they're on their own and are open to having someone check on them during periods of extreme weather. As a heat wave enters Ontario later this weekend, Metz said people should stay in the coolest part of their home if possible or go to a community cooling centre, wear lighter-coloured clothing if you have to go out, keep your doors and windows closed during the hottest parts of the day, and turn off items that may produce extra heat in your home. 'If you need to be out, you want to do that during the parts of the day that are the coolest,' she suggested, noting this means early mornings and late evenings.
