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Researchers with the American Lung Association said that
Illinois is one of the worst states for levels of smog in the
entire country. Of the 23 counties where data was available, 21
counties received a failing grade.
“The lung association tracks and grades the two most common
types of air pollution, ozone and particle pollution,” said
Kristina Hamilton, American Lung Association director of
advocacy for Illinois.
Overall, the report found 46% of Americans, or more than 156
million people, live in areas of the country with unhealthy
levels of ozone or particle pollution.
Outside factors have played a part in air quality. In June 2023,
smoke from wildfires in Canada caused Illinois to experience one
of the worst air quality indexes in the world.
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, lung
cancer is the leading cause of cancer death and mortality rates
are highest in Black men and Black women. To kick off Lung
Cancer Action Week, the American Lung Association is offering
lung cancer screenings to Illinois residents through the month
of May.
“Raise awareness about the risk factors for lung cancer and also
to increase screening and funding for lung cancer research,”
said Hamilton.
Hamilton adds that early detection is key to beating the disease
because it can be cured if found and treated in its early
stages.
For more information about the American Lung Association and
information about screenings, call 1-800-LUNGUSA.
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