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Almost 156 Million U.S. Residents Exposed to Unhealthy Air Quality, Report Finds

A report reveals nearly half of U.S. residents live in areas with hazardous air pollution, worsened by climate change and regulatory rollbacks.


Overview

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According to the American Lung Association, the number of Americans exposed to unhealthy air has increased to 156 million. These rising levels of air pollution, attributed to climate change and proposed deregulation, pose significant health risks, particularly for marginalized communities. Ozone and particle pollution are linked to serious health issues, and the report highlights the erosion of progress made under the Clean Air Act. Cities like Bakersfield, California, experience the worst air quality, with the potential for further deterioration under new environmental policies.

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Analysis

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The Trump administration's deregulation plans are making it harder to combat air pollution, negatively impacting public health and exacerbating existing inequalities in air quality exposure.

The increase in air pollution—now affecting 156 million people—is linked to worsening climate conditions, wildfires, and environmental rollbacks, with marginalized communities disproportionately affected.

Experts warn that without proper legislation and action to reduce emissions, millions will continue suffering from the health risks associated with respiratory and cardiac conditions caused by pollution.

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