Reported Emergency Department Visits for Asthma
People Reported Having Asthma
This project is important for the people living in and around polluted communities, as they are more susceptible to serious or even life-threatening diseases. Exposure to particulate matter is very harmful to the surrounding communities, as high exposure could lead to potential conditions such as asthma for children and adults. PM2.5 is classified as a fine particle, which means that these particles are extremely small and easy to inhale past the body's defense mechanisms. According to the CDC, asthma is the most common long-term health concern for children, which could potentially withhold children from certain activities. In Portsmouth, VA, Victory Boulevard is recognized as a high-traffic road with excessive amounts of trucks and cars traveling along it daily which has a tremendous impact on air pollution. Around this road are many public schools, parks, and neighborhoods, which makes these communities more at risk of harmful exposure.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Acute and Chronic Bronchitis
Lower Respiratory Infections
Heart Disease/Heart Attacks
Strokes
Type 2 Diabetes
Obesity
Systemic inflammation
Alzheimer's Disease
Dementia
Reduced Lung Function
Cardiovascular Diseases
Trachea, Bronchus, and Lung Cancers
And With Long-Term Exposure... Premature Death