Study: Louisiana ranked among 10 worst states for lung health

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — Louisiana has been named one of the worst states in the country for lung health, according to a new study by Opera Beds.

The study looked at various factors that influence respiratory health, including smoking rates, air pollution, toxic chemical releases, humidity and smoke-free indoor air laws.

Louisiana ranked 8th on the list, with high humidity and significant toxic emissions contributing to its poor score. In the state, the study found an adult smoking rate of 16.7%, 2,518 pounds per square mile of toxic releases, and 33% of the population covered by smoke-free indoor air policies.

The state’s average relative humidity is 74%. The warm average temperature is 67.2°F,

According to the study, the state’s average relative humidity is 74% and warm average temperature is 67.2 degrees Faranheit. These factors can worsen breathing problems, especially for people with asthma or COPD.

The full report highlights broader regional trends as well. Many states with poor lung health are found on or east of the Mississippi River. Indiana ranks the worst, followed by Ohio, Alaska, Pennsylvania and Michigan.

The study ranked Colorado as the best state for lung health, scoring 9.11 out of 10. The state has one of the lowest adult smoking rates in the country (10.7%) and low toxic emissions per square mile. Utah boasts the lowest adult smoking rate at 6.7% and the lowest COPD rate.

According to the study, West Virginia has the highest smoking rate at 21%, and the highest COPD rate at 12.6%.

To view the full state-by-state rankings, visit the Opera Beds lung health report.

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