Higher Air Pollution Found in Chicago's Western Edge; Health Concerns Likely to Increase

The latest report showed that the West Side of Chicago suffered from air pollution due to high nitrogen dioxide concentrations (NO2).

Increasing concerns about air pollution could result in health concerns, especially for older adults and people with medical conditions.

Researchers employed satellite observations and air quality data sets to observe Chicago's increasing air pollution concerns. One of the primary pollutants in the air is nitrogen dioxide (NO2).

The research findings were published in the Environmental Research Letters journal.

High concentrations of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in Chicago West Side

(Photo : by LUKE SHARRETT/AFP via Getty Images)
Chicago. Researchers raised concerns about the high concentrations of nitro dioxide in Chicago's West Side, becoming a hotspot of air pollution in the area. The pollution can likely cause health concerns.

Detecting the pollution and pollutants can help communities to prepare better and look for ways to address the issue.

According to the report, the West Side of Chicago showed higher nitrogen dioxide concentrations.

Researchers from Northwestern University observed the pollution in the West Side of Chicago using advanced monitoring tools and data sets.

The researchers analyzed the air quality in February and August, showing that Chicago's West Side suffers from increasing air pollution.

According to the report, air pollution is also found in Brighton Park neighborhood, North and South Lawndale, Archer Heights and East Garfield Park.

Assistant Professor Daniel Horton, the senior author of the research, explained that the findings would help officials develop targeted policies and mitigation efforts for affected communities.

Horton is from Northwestern's Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences.

Nitrogen dioxide can form from methane gas, high temperatures, fossil fuels and coal. Trucks, buses and other mass transportation contribute to the high concentration of nitrogen dioxide.

The pollutant can be mostly seen in urban areas, especially in Chicago, West and Northeastern US.

Health effects of air pollution

Higher concentrations of nitrogen dioxide could cause more health risks in polluted areas.

Exposure to the said pollutant can cause health effects. It can affect the respiratory system and cause the following:

Breathing difficulty
Premature death
Pneumonia
Bronchitis
Coughing

However, prolonged exposures can result in serious health risks and infections, especially for children, older adults and people with medical effects. The reduction of nitrogen dioxide will help mitigate the health impacts.

Furthermore, nitrogen dioxide can be extremely harmful to people's lungs.

Also Read: Scorching Temperatures Impact Mental Health in US

How to keep safe from air pollution

Americans can also reduce the problems of air pollution in their cities. Avoiding the burning of garbage and conserving electricity can mitigate the effects of air pollution. Using electric cars and equipment can be helpful.

Furthermore, planting more trees and participating in environmental projects can spark change, reducing the effects of rising heat and pollution. Trees can mitigate harmful pollutants in the air.

While in the forests or camp, be responsible by turning off your engine and avoiding the burning of leaves or wood to prevent forest fires. Campfires can also worsen air pollution.

While you commute, use your car only when it is necessary. Limiting the number of travels can reduce pollution.