SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) — The American Lung Association will release its annual “State of the Air” report on Earth Day, offering a detailed look at air quality across Illinois and the nation.
The 27th annual report tracks exposure to ozone pollution, commonly known as smog, and particle pollution, often referred to as soot. It assigns grades ranging from A to F for counties statewide and ranks metro areas based on overall air quality.
Health experts say this year’s report will place a special emphasis on children, who are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution due to developing lungs and higher exposure to outdoor air.
The report also examines the broader health impacts of poor air quality, including links to asthma attacks, heart disease, stroke, preterm birth and lung cancer.
In addition to grading air quality, the report will highlight populations most at risk, including children, older adults, pregnant individuals and those with existing lung conditions, as well as disparities affecting communities of color.
The findings will be released online early April 22, with experts available to discuss results and what steps can be taken to improve air quality moving forward.