Expert defends wood burning stoves after major new health warningA new report says burning wood in homes can damage lungs 'in the same way as cigarettes'View Image Children enjoying the warmth of a wood burning fireAn expert has defended wood-burning stoves in homes after a major new health report issued a warning that they damage lungs 'in the same way as cigarettes'. Burning wood indoors could cause damage in a similar way to cigarette smoke, researchers have warned, after a new study linked the growing popularity of domestic wood burning to lung damage. this week : “We know wood burning at home emits harmful air pollution both indoors and outdoors including known carcinogens. Despite this, air pollution from this source has approximately doubled in the UK since 2009 as more people install and use wood stoves. This study underscores the need for clearer public health guidance and regulation around domestic wood burning.