Map Shows Worst US States for Lung Health
Due to a combination of smoking rates, regional climates and air pollution, the health of Americans' lungs varies immensely from state to state, according to a new report.
A new study by Opera Beds, a specialist in clinically oriented mattresses and pressure-care systems, ranked the worst states for lung health in the U.S., drawing on data from the American Lung Association, the EPA and additional sources.
Why It Matters
Lung health in the U.S. is a significant public health concern, with millions suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD), thousands dying each year from respiratory illnesses and similar numbers being lost to lung cancer.
Millions of dollars have been devoted to researching the causes and consequences of lung health issues in the U.S., and the disparity in the health levels across the country highlights how factors such as smoking rates and air quality contributes to these outcomes.
This photo illustration shows a man holding a cigarette on August 1, 2023, in Montreal.
This photo illustration shows a man holding a cigarette on August 1, 2023, in Montreal.
ANDREJ IVANOV / AFP/Getty Images
What To Know
Opera Beds issued their rankings based on smoking rates, the coverage of anti-smoking policies and air pollution—measured in micrograms of pollutants per cubic meter (µg/m³)—while also factoring in things such as temperature and humidity in each state. The resulting "lung health" scores are shown below on the map created by Newsweek, alongside the rankings of the ten worst states for lung health.
With a score of 4.04 out of ten, Indiana ranked as the worst in the country for lung health in the study. The state has an adult smoking rate of 16.2 percent, compared to the national average of around 11 percent. Opera Beds also found that only 31.5 percent of the population is covered by smokefree indoor air policies which prohibit smoking in bars, restaurants and workplaces.
Indiana was followed by Ohio and Alaska, with respective scores of 4.72 and 4.79. The rest of the top 10 featured Pennsylvania, Michigan, Nevada, Tennessee, Louisiana, Mississippi and Kentucky.
On the other end of the list, Colorado and Hawaii were found to be the states with the best lung health, each earning a score of 9.11 out of ten. Both states benefit from lower smoking rates and enjoy reduced levels of air pollution. Overall, the top ten states largely outperform the bottom ten across these factors, though California stands out as an exception, as it maintains high overall score despite elevated air pollution levels relative to other states.
What People Are Saying
Opera Beds wrote in its report: "According to our data, the West Coast is the best place to live in the U.S. in terms of lung health. Six of the top 10 states are located on the western side of the country, with Colorado, Hawaii, and New Mexico making up the top three. This suggests that those on the West Coast may be less likely to develop respiratory conditions like COPD, due to better air quality, humidity levels, and average temperatures. It may also be a viable option for those relocating to another state to improve their lung health."
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Section 6 – Availability and Transparency Statement The complete Neuro Balance Therapy program is currently accessible through the brand's official platform, where consumers can review educational materials and explore the science-backed methodology behind the protocol. The program is offered in both physical and digital formats to accommodate varying technology preferences and household setups. Each version includes access to guided instructional content and the proprietary nerve activation tool central to the protocol's design. All educational content within the program is intended strictly for informational purposes and is presented as a non-clinical, home-based resource. Neuro Balance Therapy does not diagnose or treat medical conditions, and individuals are advised to consult with their healthcare provider before beginning any new wellness regimen. Program components are designed to complement, not replace, broader wellness or physical rehabilitation efforts and are delivered in alignment with current best practices in consumer safety and instructional clarity. Further product details, background information, and transparency disclosures can be found on the official program website. Information about program structure, availability, and research alignment can be found at the official access site. Section 7 – Final Observations and Industry Context The current landscape of fall-prevention solutions reveals an evolving market shaped by demographic trends and wellness consumer expectations. As the population over 60 continues to expand, so does the need for preventative strategies that prioritize accessibility, non-invasiveness, and autonomy. 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While more longitudinal research is warranted, early public interest in such targeted tools suggests a shift away from generalized exercise programs toward precision-oriented interventions. As balance science continues to develop, Neuro Balance Therapy positions itself as part of the broader movement redefining how older adults interact with their own mobility—through agency, awareness, and the reawakening of long-dormant neuromechanical responses. Section 8 – Public Commentary Theme Summary: Risk Awareness, Independence, and Program Accessibility Public conversations surrounding fall prevention continue to reveal a wide spectrum of experiences and emotions—ranging from fear and frustration to empowerment and cautious hope. A recurring discussion point in online forums and wellness communities is the fear of losing independence due to instability or past fall incidents. Many express concern over the limitations of traditional mobility programs, which often require clinical oversight, frequent appointments, or physical exertion that can feel overwhelming for individuals with existing discomfort or restricted movement. Some have noted the appeal of Neuro Balance Therapy for its non-strenuous routine and minimal space requirements. The fact that the program can be done while seated—without the need for specialized shoes, physical therapy appointments, or weight-bearing movement—has drawn interest among those recovering from injury or living alone. Skepticism also surfaces in certain segments of the discussion. A common question centers on whether a simple nerve-activation ritual could truly make a difference, particularly when contrasted with more robust physical therapy approaches. Others express concern over the proliferation of at-home solutions that appear promising but offer limited scientific transparency. However, the continued referencing of supporting studies on proprioception and deep nerve reflexes helps validate consumer interest and aligns with a trend toward self-education in aging wellness. Overall, public commentary reflects a desire for straightforward, low-barrier entry points into fall-prevention that emphasize autonomy, emotional reassurance, and ease of use. Neuro Balance Therapy's positioning within that dialogue—especially as it avoids over-promising outcomes—has enabled it to retain credibility while encouraging broader conversations about sensory-motor awareness as a foundation for lifelong mobility. About the Company Neuro Balance Therapy is a wellness education program founded with the goal of supporting older adults in regaining stability, confidence, and ease of movement through non-clinical, home-based strategies. Established by Certified Balance Specialist Chris Wilson, the program draws on over a decade of experience in balance instruction and proprioceptive training. Rooted in research-backed methods, Neuro Balance Therapy offers instructional tools designed to help activate underutilized sensory nerves responsible for lower-body coordination. The company's approach reflects a broader commitment to empowering individuals through accessible routines that promote physical self-reliance. Neuro Balance Therapy does not provide treatment or diagnostic services and encourages all users to consult their healthcare provider before beginning any new movement or balance routine. Contact Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
