Author: sHq_LoGiNz
Highlights:
- A preliminary study has found higher levels of air pollution in New Jersey from the 2023 Canadian wildfires were associated with a higher rate of stroke and more severe strokes.
- During heavy wildfire smoke days, researchers found more people had strokes and those strokes tended to be more severe.
- The study does not prove that wildfires cause or worsen stroke. It only shows an association.
- Exposure to higher levels of ozone was associated with a higher incidence of stroke and more bleeding strokes.
- Exposure to higher levels of particulate matter was associated with longer hospital stays and more severe strokes.
MINNEAPOLIS, March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Short-term surges in air pollution in New Jersey from the 2023 Canadian wildfires were associated with a higher stroke rate and more serious strokes, according to a preliminary study released March 3, 2026, that will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 78th Annual Meeting taking place April 18-22, 2026, in Chicago and online.
“Wildfire smoke contains pollutants like ozone and particulate matter, so it is more than a nuisance, it can be a public health hazard,” said study author Elizabeth Cerceo, MD, of Cooper Medical School of Rowan University in Camden, New Jersey. “The 2023 Canadian wildfires resulted in unprecedented declines in air quality across the northeastern United States. Our findings show that short-term exposure to elevated air pollution from these wildfires was associated with a higher incidence and severity of stroke.”
For the study, researchers used a stroke registry to identify all cases of stroke that occurred during June and July 2023 and during the same months a year earlier. Ischemic strokes are the most common kind of stroke. Bleeding strokes are more severe and often more fatal.
Researchers reviewed U.S. Environmental Protection Agency data for both periods from air quality monitors located in Camden, New Jersey. They calculated average daily exposures for ozone which, when inhaled, can cause shortness of breath, coughing and aggravation of conditions like asthma. They also calculated daily average exposures for fine particulate matter, also called PM2.5, which is air pollution with particles that are 2.5 micrometers in diameter or less.
Ozone levels peaked at 136 parts per billion (ppb) during the wildfires in 2023 compared to median ozone concentration of 36 ppb. Particulate matter reached 211 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³) compared to median concentration of 48.5 µg/m³.
Daily air quality data was matched with the timing of each stroke. Because pollution effects may take a few days to impact the body, researchers also took into account the levels from the preceding one to two days before participants had their stroke.
For ozone levels, 72% of the days were 50 ppb or less, with 28% of the days above the recommended level. The World Health Organization guideline for ozone is 50 ppb. Researchers compared 42 strokes that occurred on above average ozone days, with 80 strokes that occurred on below average days. For strokes that occurred on above average ozone days, the incidence of stroke, or the rate at which new stroke cases occurred, was 1.25 strokes per day compared to 0.93 strokes per day that occurred on below average days.
After adjusting for factors like age, sex, race, and cause of stroke, researchers found higher average ozone days were associated with a 0.32 higher incidence of stroke per day.
They also found for strokes on above average ozone days, there was a higher proportion of bleeding strokes and more large artery atherosclerosis, plaque buildup in major arteries.
For particulate matter levels, 38% of the days were above average days and 62% were below average days. Researchers compared 39 strokes that occurred on above average particulate matter days to 83 strokes that occurred on below average days. They found above average particulate matter was associated with longer hospital stays and higher scores on a scale measuring stroke severity.
“While longer-term air pollution has been recognized as a risk factor for stroke, less is known about short exposures to wildfire smoke,” said Cerceo. “Our study addresses a critical gap by providing more information about the neurological impact of wildfire smoke. Our findings can help guide stroke prevention and underscore the need for public health interventions during wildfires.”
Cerceo noted this analysis focused on a short wildfire period, and the findings represent an early signal rather than a complete picture of the association between wildfire smoke and risk of stroke. She said future research will look at longer periods of time.
A limitation of the study was that it looked at daily average pollutants. Cerceo said more nuanced hourly measurements may also impact strokes but may not be reflected in averages. Similarly, other weather variables such as humidity and barometric pressure were not incorporated.
Discover more about stroke at Brain & Life®, from the American Academy of Neurology. This resource also offers a website, podcast, and books that connect patients, caregivers and anyone interested in brain health with the most trusted information, straight from the world’s leading experts in brain health. Follow Brain & Life® on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
The American Academy of Neurology is the leading voice in brain health. As the world’s largest association of neurologists and neuroscience professionals with more than 44,000 members, the AAN provides access to the latest news, science and research affecting neurology for patients, caregivers, physicians and professionals alike. The AAN’s mission is to enhance member career fulfillment and promote brain health for all. A neurologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, care and treatment of brain, spinal cord and nervous system diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, concussion, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, headache and migraine.
Explore the latest in neurological disease and brain health, from the minds at the AAN at AAN.com or find us on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/air-pollution-from-wildfires-linked-to-higher-rate-of-stroke-302703169.html
SOURCE American Academy of Neurology
KeyBank, through the KeyBank Foundation, has announced a $500,000 investment in Say Yes Niagara Falls, marking the latest milestone in the bank’s long-standing commitment to expanding educational opportunity and strengthening communities across Western New York.
The funding will support the Niagara Falls Scholarship Endowment Fund, helping remove financial barriers for students in the Niagara Falls City School District pursuing college, certificate programs, or apprenticeship‑aligned credentials. As the largest contribution to the endowment to date, the grant moves the program significantly closer to its $20 million goal — ultimately establishing a “forever fund” for local students.
Empowering Niagara Falls Students for Generational Success
“This remarkable investment from KeyBank reflects a shared belief in the potential of Niagara Falls students,” said David Rust, CEO of Say Yes Buffalo. “This support brings us closer to our vision of creating a permanent endowment that ensures graduates of Niagara Falls High School have access to the opportunities they deserve.”
The Say Yes Niagara Falls partnership, modeled after the successful Say Yes Buffalo framework, is focused on creating a sustainable support system that increases high school and postsecondary graduation rates and equips students with the tools to build meaningful futures.
Strengthening the Region’s Talent Pipeline
KeyBank leaders emphasized the importance of investing in local talent and reducing financial barriers to higher education.
“Removing financial barriers so students can pursue college and career training is central to our mission of helping the communities we serve thrive,” said Michael McMahon, KeyBank Buffalo Market President.
“Every Niagara Falls student who dreams of college deserves the chance to say ‘yes.’ We’re honored to support Niagara Falls students and families as they turn aspiration into achievement,” added Chiwuike Owunwanne, KeyBank Buffalo Corporate Responsibility and Community Relations Officer.
A Legacy of Impact in Western New York
This effort builds on KeyBank’s broader history of community-driven philanthropy, economic mobility initiatives, and inclusive banking investments. Since 2017, KeyBank has invested more than $1.7 billion in Buffalo and Western New York, supporting affordable housing, small business and home lending, and transformational philanthropic initiatives.
ATLANTA, March 3, 2026 /3BL/ – CARE, the leading humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives and defeating poverty, announced today Level the Playing Field, a multi-day campaign in celebration of International Women’s Day on Sunday, March 8. This year’s campaign, which includes an original PSA, live events, and advocacy outreach on Capitol Hill, invites audiences to take a simple and meaningful action to sign a pledge that supports leveling the playing field for women everywhere.
To kick off the campaign, CARE released a one-minute flagship PSA video recorded by three celebrated athletes and advocates for women and girls – Two-Time Olympian and Gold Medalist Jordan Chiles, World Cup Soccer Champion, Two-Time Olympic Gold Medalist, and Author Abby Wambach, and Two-Time World Cup Soccer Champion and Two-Time Olympic Gold Medalist Julie Foudy – that spotlights the unequal playing field for women and girls and the systemic barriers that hold them back. Watch here.
“Too often, women and girls are expected to push through barriers others never have to face. Across the communities where CARE works, we see firsthand how humanitarian crises disproportionately impact women and girls — undermining their economic security, health, and safety, and tilting the playing field even further out of their favor,” said Michelle Nunn, President and CEO of CARE. “Jordan, Abby, and Julie are exemplary leaders who have fought for equity in their sport and beyond, and having them join us to help ‘level the playing field’ worldwide will strengthen CARE’s efforts to remove barriers, expand opportunity, and ensure everyone can thrive — even in the face of crisis.”
To sign the pledge, learn more about CARE’s International Women’s Day campaign and join the conversation on how women’s leadership in every field shapes a fairer, more equitable world, visit care.org/pledge. Follow the organization on Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.
In partnership with:
P&G returns as the presenting partner for CARE’s International Women’s Day, maker of trusted brands like Always, Olay, Pantene, Secret, and Tampax. Together, CARE and P&G work to foster educational and economic opportunities for women and girls around the world, and to improve access to clean drinking water and proper hygiene through the Children’s Safe Drinking Water Program.
Delta Air Lines returns as a leading sponsor, committed to championing women’s empowerment and gender equality by supporting programs that promote women in leadership, entrepreneurship, and sports. For 30 years, Delta’s partnership with CARE has helped elevate and create opportunities for women and girls around the world.
Welcome to the Party, the new bi-weekly podcast series hosted by Abby Wambach, Julie Foudy, and Billie Jean King, joins CARE as a media partner for International Women’s Day with a shared mission to celebrate and elevate women’s sports and women everywhere.
Additional partners include: Snap, Inc. and Cotopaxi.
About CARE
Founded in 1945 with the creation of the CARE PACKAGE® box, CARE is a leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty. CARE places special focus on working alongside women and girls. Equipped with the proper resources, women and girls have the power to lift whole families and entire communities out of poverty. In 2025, CARE worked in 121 countries, reaching 58.7 million people through 1,467 projects. To learn more, visit www.care.org.
For media inquiries, email care@ssmandl.com or call (212) 691-2800
CASE Construction Equipment, a brand of CNH, is doubling down at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, March 3-7 in Las Vegas with an impressive machine lineup purpose-built to help crews work smarter, safer and more efficiently than ever before. The company will feature more than 40 machines across 40,000 square feet in West Hall booth #W40701, highlighting nearly 20 new or upgraded models. The display will offer contractors, municipal crews, utility teams, landscapers and rental businesses of every size a first-hand look at CASE’s game-changing innovations in equipment, technology and attachments to take on today’s toughest jobs.
Highlights include new D Series 3-ton mini excavators, a new midi excavator and new models to the E Series full-sized excavator lineup — showcasing versatile attachment capabilities and CASE’s latest advancements in controls, connectivity and precision technology. Visitors can also see the latest addition to CASE’s growing list of electric equipment: the all-new TL100EV electric mini track loader, with ultra-quiet, emissions-free operation and the same performance as its diesel counterpart.
Powerful new G Series compact wheel loaders with operator-friendly cab improvements will be at the show, along with upgraded large wheel loaders featuring operator-assist features like AutoDig and rear object detection. Show attendees will also be able to preview new N Series dozers expected to arrive in late 2026, with big upgrades to performance management, visibility and the operator experience.
Alongside the new equipment, the trailblazing 580EV electric backhoe will also be on display, demonstrating CASE’s pioneering work in powerful, zero-emissions equipment for unique jobsite requirements.
Read the full story here.
Life Cycle Assessment in Detail
OTTAWA, ON, March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ – As the electronics industry faces mounting pressure to provide transparent, quantifiable environmental data, Claigan is presenting a new webinar on March 18th designed to be the most technically comprehensive session currently available on LCA, EPD, and PCR for electronics broken down in a way that you can understand.
Creating an LCA or EPD for your product can give you increased market access and provide a mechanism for demonstrating year-over-year improvements. Nobody wants to be shut out of a purchasing tender while their competitors gain the edge. And by 2028, all products sold to the NHS in the UK require specific carbon foot printing via the LCA process.
Moving past the high-level overviews that dominate the industry, this webinar is designed specifically for environmental engineers, sustainability officers, and product compliance managers who require a granular understanding of the mechanics behind life cycle assessments. Claigan has found that professionals in the electronics sector are tired of basic sustainability overviews; they need the hard math for complex regulatory frameworks.
Claigan’s webinar will discuss the detailed difference between Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), and how they are tied together by Product Category Rules (PCR).
Key topics will include:
- Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
- Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)
- Product Category Rules (PCR)
- PCR 2024-06 Electronic and electric equipment, and electronic components
- Required stages
- How to create LCA information for components of your products
- Questions you need to answer to complete an LCA
- Where LCAs add value to tenders or are required
Note – due to the expected demand, there will be two (2) webinars scheduled on March 18.
Webinars – Beyond the Greenwash: A Technical Masterclass on LCA, EPD & PCR for Electronics
Date: 18 March, 2026
Time: 10am and 2pm
Duration: 1 hour including Q&A
To Register:
10am – https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2vf1Br4GRM6sJix6o6rJ3w
2pm – https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VNCfKdesQIu_p9kg–C1sA
or on Claigan’s Website at www.claigan.com/webinars
About Claigan Environmental (www.claigan.com)
Claigan is the leading provider in restricted materials compliance (consulting and testing). Claigan has tested thousands of products for EU MDR, PFAS, Section 71, REACH, POP, TSCA, Prop 65, and related global compliance. Claigan is an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory, expert consultancy, and is dedicated to providing practical solutions for supply chain due diligence and social responsibility.
At Claigan, our philosophy is simple: Less Journey, More Results.
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/claigan-webinar—beyond-the-greenwash-a-technical-masterclass-on-lca-epd–pcr-for-electronics-302703028.html
SOURCE Claigan Environmental Inc.
When communities are tested by tragedy, recovery is not only about rebuilding—it’s about restoring hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging. In Los Angeles County, families impacted by the devastating wildfires of 2025 know this reality all too well. Entire neighborhoods were altered overnight, and for many communities like Altadena, the loss extended far beyond physical structures.
The LA Clippers, Habitat for Humanity, Nike and Comcast NBCUniversal came together to host the final of three home builds for LA County families whose lives were upended by the 2025 wildfires.
At Comcast NBCUniversal, we believe that strong teams build strong communities. That belief guided our partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles, NBA, the LA Clippers, and San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity, as we came together to support more than 112 households rebuilding their lives after unimaginable loss.
Kathy Behrens, NBA President of Social Responsibility & Player Programs, kick off the day by welcoming hundreds of attendees and partners.
Our employee volunteers were central to this work. Over several months, and three community build days in October, December, and February, Comcast NBCUniversal employee volunteers worked alongside Clippers teammates and coaches, Habitat experts, and community members to construct homes, frame walls, assemble furniture, and create spaces where families can thrive. This direct hands-on support of families reinforced the idea that recovery is not something we do for communities, but with them. Our volunteers alongside Clippers players, coaches and NBA legends added an inspiring reminder that rebuilding is a shared responsibility, and that community extends far beyond team lines or corporate walls.
Volunteers assembling interior structures for homes.
This effort is deeply connected to Project UP, our comprehensive commitment to build a future of unlimited possibilities. Safe, stable housing is foundational to that commitment.
Dalila Wilson-Scott, Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation President, welcomes attendees and thanks partners for collaborating to make impact in the communities we serve.
The final community build and home unveiling took place at the 18th Annual NBA Carers All-Star Day of Service in Los Angeles. And two families — one from Los Angeles and one from the San Gabriel Valley — were recognized as the newest recipients of homes built through this effort. Hosting this milestone during a global celebration of sports underscored the spirit of teamwork and unity that defined the entire effort.
A volunteer applies primer to moulding during the rebuild efforts.
Our commitment to Los Angeles County will not end with the final build. Comcast NBCUniversal has a long-standing presence in California, and we remain dedicated to serving the communities where our employees live and work. From disaster recovery to workforce development and community partnerships, we continue to invest in initiatives that create lasting impact and advance opportunity for generations to come.
Local Habitat for Humanity CEOs Erin Rank and Bryan Wong express gratitude for helping Angelenos impacted by the 2025 wildfires.
We are incredibly proud of our employees who volunteered their time, skills, and hearts to this effort. Their dedication reflects the best of Comcast NBCUniversal and our shared values of service, impact, inclusion, and care. When we show up together—across companies, sectors, and communities—we don’t just rebuild homes. We help rebuild lives.
Former NBA Player Joakim Noah helps with painting materials.
Strong teams truly do build strong communities. And in Los Angeles, that strength is rising—one home, one family, and one partnership at a time.
Dalila Wilson-Scott, Chief Impact & Inclusion Officer, Comcast Corporation and President, Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation
Hilary Smith, EVP, Corporate Social Responsibility, NBCUniversal
About Comcast
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.
SALT LAKE CITY, March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Pura, a home-fragrance company committed to creating meaningful experiences through scent, is proud to debut the Pura x Malala Fund Collection—four fragrances inspired by the courage of girls who are pursuing their right to learn and by Malala Fund’s transformative work across Brazil, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Pakistan.
Malala Fund, founded by Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai, champions a world where every girl can access and complete 12 years of education. Their work spans some of the world’s most challenging contexts globally, where girls face steep barriers to completing their education, and where locally led, community-rooted solutions are creating powerful, lasting change.
After four years of partnership, Pura’s philanthropic collaboration with Malala Fund finds new expression through a collection that scents with a purpose. Each fragrance draws inspiration from the dedication of local advocates, the strength and hope of girls fighting for their education, and the beauty and spirit of the communities they call home. Together, these elements shaped a scent collection designed to honor Malala Fund’s mission through the evocative power of scent.
“Malala Fund’s work reminds us that when girls learn, communities grow stronger and the world becomes more equitable,” said Bruno Lima, Pura’s CEO and Founder. “We created this collection as a love letter to the girls and the places that inspired it—each fragrance a tribute to their courage, creativity, and hope.”
From Brazil’s lush rainforest and salty beaches to Nigeria’s red-earth villages, from Pakistan’s soaring mountain ranges to Tanzania’s chai-scented spice markets, each country holds a distinct rhythm and beauty. These landscapes, rich in culture and alive with possibility, inspired the fragrance design of the Pura x Malala Fund Collection.
The collection was designed to reflect both the diversity and unity of Malala Fund’s global movement: girls advocating for their futures, local leaders driving change, and communities evolving to build a brighter and more inclusive world. Every fragrance embodies the belief that education is freedom and that unlocking opportunity for girls unlocks opportunity for everyone.
- Brazil: Breath of Courage
Bold. Determined. Creative.
Inspired by Brazil’s vibrant heritage of tropical fruits and by the determination and creativity embodied by the girls who call Brazil home.
Passionfruit | Acai | Coconut
- Pakistan: Future in Bloom
Ambitious. Brave. Purposeful.
Inspired by Pakistan’s national fruit and flower, mango and jasmine, and by the hope and encouragement embodied by the girls who call Pakistan home.
Mango | Jasmine | Cedarwood
- Tanzania: Heart on Fire Optimistic. Fearless. Dynamic.
Our perfumers wanted to capture the rich spices rooted in the region’s long history while celebrating the bright, joyful energy of the girls who call Tanzania home.
Cardamom | Clove | Black pepper
- Nigeria: Hope for Tomorrow
Resilient. Resourceful. Passionate.
Our perfumers wanted to pay homage to the land, its arid scents, and celebrate the youthful and energetic spirit of the girls who call Nigeria home.
Starfruit | Hyacinth | Patchouli
“Pura has been a thoughtful partner for four years, and this collection reflects a shared belief that girls’ education is one of the most powerful investments we can make,” said Lena Alfi, CEO of Malala Fund. “We hope these fragrances spark curiosity, conversation, and action to support girls and the local leaders defending their right to learn and helping them unlock their potential.”
In addition to Pura’s annual investment in Malala Fund, 8% of net revenue from the Pura x Malala Fund Collection will be donated directly to Malala Fund in support of their mission.
The Pura x Malala Fund Collection is available now at pura.com.
To learn more about Malala Fund’s mission and impact, visit malala.org.
About Pura
Pura is a home fragrance company dedicated to enhancing everyday life through meaningful scent experiences. Guided by a belief in connection, community, and purpose, Pura partners with organizations around the world to help tell stories that matter.
About Malala Fund
Malala Fund works for a world where all girls can learn and choose their own futures. Founded by Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai and her father, Ziauddin Yousafzai, the organization helps ensure every girl can access and complete 12 years of education to build the knowledge, skills, and confidence to shape her own life.
Media contact
Pura@azionepr.com
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SOURCE Pura
