Health Effects of Ozone

People With Asthma

There are over 208,000 people is the Greater St. Louis Region who have asthma. The effects of ozone are most dangerous for people who are sensitive - people with asthma or other lung disease, children or the elderly.

Ozone can aggravate asthma, causing more asthma attacks, increased use of medication, more medical treatment, and more visits to hospital emergency clinics.

Look below to see the estimated number of people in the Greater St. Louis Region who have chronic lung disease.

Cite: Estimated Prevalence and Incidence of Lung Disease by Lung Association Territory, American Lung Association, July 2005.

In 1996, the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) estimated the natiowide prevalence of COPD. An individual respondent to the NHIS can report the presence of more than one chronic lung disease: for example, chronic bronchitis and emphysema. For this reason, we have derived separate estimates for these diseases. Please do not add these estimates to calculate COPD prevalence, as existing overlap would overestimate the prevalence in your community.

Click here to learn how healthy adults are affected by ozone.

About Air Pollution Subcategories

Air Pollution Basics
• What is Ozone?
• Sources of Ozone
• Ozone Formation

Air Quality Facts

Health Effects of Ozone
• St. Louis Population with
Lung Disease
• How Healthy Adults are
Affected by Ozone
• Tips for Exercisers
• Ozone & Hospital
Admissions

Particulate Matter

Local Air Quality
• St. Louis Monitor Map

Air Quality Index

Air Quality Data