Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and chronic asthma and allergies are common breathing issues all across the United States. For this reason, good air quality, low pollution, and access to healthcare is necessary for people suffering from such conditions. While the U.S. has made strides in the right direction recently, some American cities still provide less than ideal environments for residents with breathing problems:
1. Dayton, OH
Dayton, OH, experiences high ozone levels all year round, a harmful gas that can irritate the lungs and can trigger asthma attacks. In addition to the ozone, Dayton has significant amounts of PM2.5, tiny particle pollution that can be inhaled deep into the lungs and cause severe health issues. Unfortunately, the city has high levels of sulfur dioxide, a pollutant that can cause severe lung damage. The combination of these three pollutants makes Dayton troublesome for people with breathing issues.
2. Springfield, MA
Springfield, MA, tops the list as the city with the worst air quality in the U.S. for people with breathing problems. The city has a complex mix of topography, age, and industrial history that makes for an air quality index (AQI) of about 145, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. Pollutants such as ozone and particulate matter are exceptionally high in Springfield and can cause serious health issues for those with breathing issues. To make matters worse, the summer months are dreadful. Residents should stay indoors whenever possible and be sure to wear masks when outdoors to protect themselves from poor air quality.
3. Greensboro, NC
Greensboro, NC, is another city with unhealthy air for those who suffer from breathing problems. The city’s unique combination of industries and geographical features contribute to poor air quality. The city’s AQI is an average of 130, which puts it just barely into the unhealthy range for sensitive groups. High levels of ozone, PM2.5, and sulfur dioxide plague the city, especially during the summer months. Greensboro also has many other hazardous air pollutants, such as lead and benzo(a)pyrene, which can cause serious health issues for people with breathing problems.
4. Philadelphia, PA
If you have breathing issues, Philadelphia, PA, is another city to avoid. The city has high levels of PM2.5 and ozone, both dangerous pollutants for people with lung problems. Additionally, Philadelphia experiences high levels of benzene and formaldehyde, which can cause severe health issues. In addition to these pollutants, Philadelphia also has an AQI of about 130, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. The city’s dense population and the industrial zones can cause large spikes in pollutants that may prove hazardous for those with respiratory problems.
5. Cleveland, OH
As the 5th most polluted city in the United States, Cleveland, OH, has an AQI of approximately 120, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. The city’s large industrial district contributes to the high levels of ozone, PM2.5 and sulfur dioxide in the air. Additionally, some neighborhoods in the city have high levels of lead and benzo(a)pyrene, thanks to their proximity to industrial zones.
If you have breathing issues, you need to be aware of cities with air quality issues since air quality can dramatically impact your health. Unfortunately, the five cities mentioned above have some of the worst air quality in the nation and should be avoided if possible. Furthermore, it is essential to stay informed of local air quality levels and take extra precautions to protect your respiratory health.
