Urban Breathing Woes
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that makes it hard for people to breathe. Certain cities can make asthma symptoms worse due to high pollution levels and other factors. In this article, we review the top ten worst cities for people with asthma in the United States.
1. Allentown, PA
Allentown has struggled with air quality issues for many years. The city has a mix of heavy traffic, older buildings and industrial areas that contribute to higher levels of pollution. In addition, dust and mold in older buildings may add to the daily challenges faced by asthma sufferers. With winter bringing more heating and associated pollution, Allentown can be especially tough on those prone to asthma issues.
2. Rochester, NY
Rochester experiences cold winters that can make asthma worse. Cold weather may increase the number of indoor hours for residents, which in turn can raise exposure to dust mites and indoor pollutants. Moreover, the city has seen increases in traffic and urban growth, which results in more car emissions. Rochester’s mix of industrial areas and older neighborhoods adds to the environmental challenges for those with respiratory problems.
3. Detroit, MI
Detroit is a city known for its industrial past and its struggle to recover economically. The remnants of old industries and factories in the region still affect the air quality. Pollution from car exhaust and other urban activities may worsen the breathing difficulties faced by asthmatic residents. The city has a dense population which contributes to heavy traffic congestion, releasing large amounts of particulate matter and chemicals into the air.
4. Springfield, MA
Springfield has its own share of environmental challenges. The area sometimes suffers from poor air quality due to industrial emissions in nearby regions. These emissions can mix with local pollutants like vehicle exhaust, raising the risk of asthma attacks. Seasonal changes play a role too as pollutants can combine to form smog on hot and humid days, affecting residents with breathing problems.
5. Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is one of the largest cities in the United States and has a lot of traffic. With millions of cars on the road, the city faces high levels of emissions from vehicles. Industrial activities and older buildings also contribute to its pollution. This means that the air in certain areas can be full of dust, chemical pollutants and other asthma triggers. Crowded urban life in Philadelphia often leads to exposure to allergens and pollutants, making it a challenging city for those with respiratory conditions.
6. Cleveland, OH
Cleveland’s industrial history has left a legacy of environmental concerns. The city has experienced challenges with air pollution from factories and increased vehicle traffic in recent decades. These factors lead to higher amounts of ozone and pollutants in the air. Urban areas in Cleveland may have limited green spaces, which normally help filter the air. As a result, asthmatic residents must be extra cautious during periods of heavy traffic or industrial activity.
7. Lakeland, FL
Lakeland might be known for its warm climate, but it is not free from pollution issues. The combination of warm weather and high humidity can allow biological allergens, such as mold and pollen, to thrive. Additionally, the growing population in Lakeland means more cars on the road, which adds further to air pollution. While the city offers a pleasant climate in many ways, the hidden problem of allergens and traffic emissions makes it challenging for asthma sufferers.
8. Baltimore, MD
Baltimore is a busy port city with a mix of old and new infrastructure. The high number of older buildings can lead to issues like mold and dust accumulation inside homes and offices. Outdoor air is also affected by heavy traffic, industrial emissions and occasional smog. Research shows that areas with older infrastructure and lower income levels can suffer more from environmental hazards, making Baltimore a less than ideal place to live without proper precautions.
9. Charleston, SC
Charleston is a charming city known for its historic architecture and picturesque streets. However, the region’s warm and humid climate contributes to a growing problem with mold and allergens. Many homes in historic areas can harbor dust, mold and other triggers due to aging and less efficient ventilation systems. Additionally, sea breezes combined with industrial activity along port areas can stir up allergens.
10. Providence, RI
Providence has a long history that includes industrial use which has left a mark on its local environment. The city struggles with air quality due to traffic emissions and industrial pollution in some districts. Older neighborhoods in Providence often face issues with poorly maintained buildings that can harbor dust and mold. Additionally, the coastal climate can sometimes lead to moisture issues indoors, creating a perfect environment for allergens that trigger asthma.
Final Notes
These ten cities share common challenges and adults with asthma living in these areas have to be particularly careful. For anyone with asthma, understanding the environmental challenges of a city is the first step toward protecting their health and taking action to avoid triggers whenever possible.
Keep reading to learn about houseplants that can help improve air quality.