NORTHERN CALIFORNIA — A Kaiser Permanente Northern California study published in May 2026 found that most patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) lack adequate guidance on protecting themselves from wildfire smoke. Wildfire smoke is a leading cause of pollution in the United States and often triggers breathing difficulties and exacerbations for people with COPD.

Researchers interviewed COPD patients enrolled in Kaiser Permanente NorthernCalifornia, who lived near areas affected by past wildfire events. The study, titled "Understanding COPD Patients' Perspectives on Utilizing Strategies to Limit Their Exposure to Wildfire Smoke," explored participants' understanding of wildfire smoke, their protective behaviors, and their preferred sources of information.

Interview responses indicated that most patients rely on smartphone applications and online resources for air quality information. These responses also showed that most patients had not discussed with their doctors how air quality negatively affects their health. Additionally, many patients lacked knowledge regarding mitigation strategies, such as using indoor air purifiers or vehicle air recirculation buttons.

Most interviewed patients expressed a preference for receiving real-time guidance from their healthcare team when air quality poses a health risk. Some patients monitor air quality, while others do not. "We need to make sure that people with COPD receive accurate, actionable guidance from trusted sources in real-time so they can take actions to protect themselves," said Laura C. Myers, M.D., MPH, of Kaiser Permanente Northern California and senior author of the study.

Myers stated, "Patient-centered approaches to wildfire preparedness can help the most vulnerable people prepare for and respond to air quality events before their symptoms get worse." COPD includes conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis, affects more than 30 million Americans, and is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide. J. Yao also authored the study.