Report: Higher Asthma Rates Attributed to Air Pollution
Air pollution related to the freight industry contributes to higher incidences of asthma in California communities near ports, according to a study by a coalition of environmental and community advocacy groups, the Oakland Tribune reports (Fischer, Oakland Tribune, 11/15).
The study cites statistics from the California Air Resources Board indicating that pollution from freight transport annually results in:
- 2,400 premature deaths;
- 2,380 hospital admissions;
- 360,000 work absences; and
- 1.1 million school absences.
Shipping companies and ports on Tuesday said they are working to reduce emissions (Oakland Tribune, 11/15). This is part of the California Healthline Daily Edition, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.