Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

156 Million Americans Face Unhealthy Air Quality Crisis

4/29/2025

34 5

Summary

Story summary

The American Lung Association's 2025 "State of the Air" report paints a troubling picture of air quality in the U.S., with nearly 156 million people breathing in unhealthy pollution. Major cities, especially in California, struggle with high levels of ozone and particle pollution, while wildfires and extreme heat further threaten the health of our most vulnerable communities.

1 of 1

Story summary

The American Lung Association's 2025 "State of the Air" report paints a troubling picture of air quality in the U.S., with nearly 156 million people breathing in unhealthy pollution. Major cities, especially in California, struggle with high levels of ozone and particle pollution, while wildfires and extreme heat further threaten the health of our most vulnerable communities.