A recent nationwide study conducted by Opera Beds places California among the top-performing states for lung health. The report, which assessed environmental and health-related data across all 50 U.S. states, found that California excels due to low smoking rates, cleaner air, and overall favorable environmental conditions. The Golden State ranked sixth overall in the final list of healthiest states for lungs.
Researchers analyzed multiple variables contributing to chronic respiratory issues such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). These included smoking prevalence, air pollution levels, toxic chemical emissions, humidity, and COPD statistics from 2018 to 2023. To ensure accuracy, data was sourced from national organizations like the American Lung Association, the Environmental Protection Agency, and America’s Health Rankings. Due to missing recent data, Kentucky and Pennsylvania were not included in certain COPD-related comparisons.
West Coast States Lead the Way, Midwest and South Lag Behind
California is not alone in promoting better respiratory health. Six of the top ten states in the study are located in the western U.S., with Colorado, Hawaii, and New Mexico occupying the top three spots. Maryland, Nebraska, and it followed closely behind. These states benefited from lower humidity, reduced air pollution, and proactive public health measures.
In contrast, many Midwestern and Southern states were found to have the poorest lung health indicators. Indiana, Ohio, and Alaska ranked at the bottom of the list, with higher humidity, colder climates, and fewer clean air laws contributing to the elevated health risks. These environmental and legislative factors were identified as key contributors to the worsening respiratory conditions in these regions.
The top 10 states for lung health were:
- Colorado
- Hawaii
- New Mexico
- Maryland
- Nebraska
- California
- South Dakota
- Connecticut
- Rhode Island
- New Jersey
Meanwhile, the bottom 10 states included:
- Indiana
- Ohio
- Alaska
- Pennsylvania
- Michigan
- Nevada
- Tennessee
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Kentucky
Low COPD Rates Reflect California’s Respiratory Strength
It also stood out in specific disease-related metrics, ranking second in the nation for lowest COPD prevalence, just behind Utah. COPD, which affects more than 14 million adults in the U.S., includes conditions like emphysema and chronic bronchitis. While smoking remains a major cause, environmental triggers such as pollution and humidity can exacerbate the disease.
The top states with the lowest COPD rates include Utah, California, Hawaii, New Jersey, and Washington, suggesting that geographic and policy-based factors may offer a protective effect. In contrast, states such as West Virginia, Tennessee, and Alabama reported the highest COPD prevalence, underscoring persistent health disparities in certain regions.
For Californians, these findings are encouraging. The state’s emphasis on environmental protection, public health initiatives, and climate-conscious policies appears to be fostering healthier lungs and improving overall quality of life.
