By Franklin Delgado
Nearly 152.3 million Americans, about half of the country’s population, face unhealthy levels of ozone and particulate matter pollution (PM2.5). This phenomenon has been documented in the American Lung Association’s 2026 “State of the Air” report.
Exposure to these pollutants, especially among poor and low-income communities, generates multiple adverse effects on health and well-being.
The report highlights that disadvantaged communities experience higher rates of exposure to polluted air. According to experts, such as Dr. Afif El-Hasan, a board-certified pulmonologist and spokesperson for the American Lung Association, who ABC interviewed, the lack of socioeconomic resources contributes to a vicious cycle that affects not only physical health, but also family and financial dynamics. More than 33.5 million children—46% of those under 18—live in areas with failing air quality scores, which could have long-term consequences on their lung development.
Measures and recommendations for the population
Despite gains in air quality regulation since the passage of the Clean Air Act in 1970, ozone pollution has worsened.
The American Lung Association offers recommendations to mitigate risks, such as limiting time outdoors on poor quality days, wearing masks, and improving air quality inside the home.
Public health policy needs
The report highlights the importance of maintaining and strengthening public policies related to air quality.
The contribution of each individual to the preservation of clean air is greater to guarantee collective health.
Climate change also plays a well-known role in intensifying air pollution, requiring a coordinated response at the national level.
Affectation in cognitive and emotional development
Air pollution negatively affects children’s cognitive and emotional development, especially during pregnancy and the first years of life. Studies show that pollutants such as NO2 and PM2.5 particles cross the blood-brain barrier, causing brain inflammation and altering neuroplasticity.
Cognitive impact
- Early exposure reduces attention span, working memory and executive skills in children aged 4 to 8 years, with more pronounced effects in boys.
- It is also associated with lower scores on verbal, math, and language tests, as well as learning delays and an increased risk of ADHD.
- Research confirms changes in brain structure and connectivity due to pollution during childhood.
emotional effects
- It causes behavioral problems, anxiety and depression due to chronic inflammation and oxidative stress in the developing brain.
- Exposed children are at increased risk for long-term neurodevelopmental and mental health disorders, such as emotional and regulatory difficulties.
- The WHO highlights that toxic air impacts mental and motor development, aggravating vulnerabilities in more than 90% of the world’s children.
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