Wood-burning stoves and fires are often seen as a warm and inviting addition to the home, especially during the winter months. However, a new study warns burning wood in the home could damage lungs in a similar way to cigarette smoke.
A study led by University College London has found that people using indoor wood burners experience a faster decline in lung function than those who do not. The findings were presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress in Amsterdam.
Wood burning and air pollution
Domestic wood burning is now one of the UK’s largest single sources of a harmful air pollutant known as PM2.5 – microscopic particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs. Researchers analysed health data from over 11,000 people, alongside property energy performance records and census information, to explore the health impacts.
Lung function was measured repeatedly over an eight-year period in more than 1,700 participants. The study found that lung function, measured using forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), declined more quickly among those using solid fuels such as indoor wood burners.
For example, participants aged 70–79 lost an average of 0.12 litres of lung capacity if they used wood burners, compared to 0.07 litres among non-users.
The researchers concluded that high levels of particulate matter from wood smoke damage respiratory tissue and cause inflammation in a similar way to cigarette smoke.
Growing popularity raises concerns
Despite mounting evidence of the health risks, self-reported use of indoor wood fuel rose from 10% in 2004/05 to 18% in 2021/22. Experts warn that many households install wood burners for their aesthetic appeal rather than out of necessity, potentially exposing families to avoidable health risks.
Paula Chadwick, Chief Executive of Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, said:
“This important research highlights a hidden danger many people may not realise – the impact of burning wood indoors on their lung health. Just like smoking, inhaling harmful particles from wood burners can cause lasting damage.
“At Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, we want to ensure people have the facts so they can make informed choices to protect themselves and their families. Clearer guidance and stronger regulation are urgently needed to reduce this risk.”