Many people worldwide are affected by asthma and allergies. Environmental factors are mostly to blame, such as allergens, tobacco smoke, air pollution and traffic congestion. On top of that, many low-income families face significant financial barriers for affording their asthma care and medication. Asthma affects your whole immune system.

The following cities are known for high rates of asthma related illnesses and experience higher rates of attacks, which lead to more emergency room visits:

1) Springfield, MA
Out of every 5 children, in Springfield has asthma. Emergency room visits due to asthma related illnesses are double of that in other states. The pollen count in Springfield is high. Poverty, air quality and being able to afford to see a specialist are the main reasons why there are so many cases. Children in Springfield are the most affected by asthma related illnesses especially in urban areas. There are a lot of manufacturing, and industrial businesses in Springfield.

2. Dayton, OH
Dayton is between the Miami Valley and Cincinnati. Pollen is a big trigger during the spring for people with asthma. The pollen in this city becomes concentrated, gets into the air and people’s lungs. People who live in Dayton are constantly exposed to high levels of different allergens. When the temperature falls in Dayton, cases of asthma rise due to increase in asthmatic triggers.

3. Greensboro, NC –
In Greensboro, allergens and triggers are a little different from the other two states. Research was conducted on certain housing conditions and how they affect people and children with asthma. During the research, it was found that many of the houses had issues with plumbing, roofs that leaked, poor ventilation, and structural damage. There are many low-income families in Greensboro North Carolina, which puts children at a higher risk.

4. Philadelphia, PA
Asthma triggers in this city are due to climate change, carbon dioxide, and greenhouse gases. Children who come from low-income families, and especially children from minority communities are at a higher risk for asthma related illnesses. Dust mites, mold, tobacco, cockroaches are the key factors for triggering asthma attacks in this state.

5. Cleveland, OH
Cleveland Ohio is ranked as one of the most polluted cities in the U.S. Residents are often exposed to polluted air, high emissions released from power plants and when it is hot, extreme heat. This city also has a high pollen count and people who are low-income often cannot afford the proper medical care. The air quality in this state is very poor.