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Coke Plant Closure Cuts Pediatric Asthma Visits by 41%

8/6/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The shutdown of Shenango Coke Works in Avalon, Pennsylvania, has led to a remarkable boost in public health. Pediatric asthma emergency visits plummeted by 41.2%, and general respiratory visits fell by 20.5%. These striking improvements highlight the vital importance of cutting fossil fuel pollution, especially for our most vulnerable—our children.

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Story summary

The shutdown of Shenango Coke Works in Avalon, Pennsylvania, has led to a remarkable boost in public health. Pediatric asthma emergency visits plummeted by 41.2%, and general respiratory visits fell by 20.5%. These striking improvements highlight the vital importance of cutting fossil fuel pollution, especially for our most vulnerable—our children.