Avoid These Cities if You Have Asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of Americans, and environmental factors can significantly impact asthma symptoms. Poor air quality, high pollen counts and climate conditions contribute to making certain cities more challenging for asthma sufferers. Below are the ten worst cities for asthma in the USA in 2025, based on air pollution, allergen levels, healthcare access and climate conditions.
1. Allentown, Pennsylvania
Allentown, located in eastern Pennsylvania, has been repeatedly ranked as one of the worst cities for asthma sufferers. Several factors contribute to its high asthma rates, including poor air quality, industrial pollution and a high prevalence of asthma in the community. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) lists Allentown as the worst city for asthma, pointing to the city’s poor air quality and limited healthcare access. These environmental and social challenges make it a difficult place for individuals with asthma to live.
2. Rochester, New York
Rochester, located in upstate New York, has also earned a spot on the list of the worst cities for asthma. Like Allentown, Rochester struggles with air pollution, particularly from vehicle emissions and industrial activities. The city also has a relatively high rate of asthma prevalence, with many residents experiencing severe asthma symptoms that require frequent emergency care.
3. Detroit, Michigan
Detroit, Michigan, has long been associated with industrial pollution, and it is no surprise that it ranks among the worst cities for asthma. The city’s air quality is heavily impacted by emissions from factories, power plants and heavy traffic. The high levels of pollution in the air can make asthma much worse for those who already suffer from the condition.
4. Springfield, Massachusetts
Springfield, Massachusetts, is another city where asthma is a significant concern. Springfield struggles with air quality, especially during the summer months when ozone levels tend to rise. High levels of particulate matter from traffic, industrial activity and construction further exacerbate asthma symptoms.
5. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has long struggled with air quality issues due to its heavy traffic, industrial presence and high population density. This makes it one of the worst cities for people with asthma. The city experiences significant levels of pollution from both local sources and regional factors, such as power plants and vehicle emissions.
6. Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland, Ohio, is another city facing significant asthma challenges. Cleveland’s location along the industrial Midwest corridor exposes residents to a high level of pollutants, particularly ozone and particulate matter. These pollutants can severely affect people with asthma, especially those who live near sources of pollution such as factories and highways.
7. Lakeland, Florida
Lakeland, Florida, experiences high asthma rates due to a combination of environmental and socioeconomic factors. The city has poor air quality, particularly during the summer months when ozone levels peak. High temperatures and humidity can also contribute to worsen asthma symptoms. Furthermore, Lakeland has a relatively high poverty rate, which often correlates with higher rates of asthma prevalence and poorer asthma management.
8. Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore, Maryland, is another city that ranks high on the list of worst cities for asthma. The city’s air quality is impacted by vehicle emissions, industrial pollutants and high levels of particulate matter. Baltimore is known for its high rates of asthma-related hospitalizations, particularly among children and low-income residents.
9. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina, has high levels of pollen, which contribute to asthma attacks in the spring and fall. Combined with high humidity and air pollution, Charleston presents a challenging environment for asthma sufferers.
10. Providence, Rhode Island
Providence, Rhode Island is a city where the air quality is a significant concern. This is because of vehicle emissions, industrial activities and geographical factors that trap pollutants in the area. Asthma is common in Providence, and residents face a high rate of asthma-related hospitalizations. While Providence has decent healthcare resources, the prevalence of asthma remains high, and the city’s air quality continues to be a significant challenge for those living with the condition.
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