Public health officials have long noted the increase in asthma cases and related breathing difficulties, but Yang Wang at the Chronicle has done an interesting look at how this problem has impacted our local area. General findings include:
- More hospitalizations occur in outlying rural areas, (Liberty County being in the lead) probably due the poorer availability of primary care providers.
- Poor neighborhoods are overall more likely to show severe cases. In the city Sunnyside lead with the most hospital visits/referrals.
- Areas adjacent to industry were also very high in reported cases. ex. areas near the ship channel, refineries, etc.
