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Up to 3 out of every 10 people are allergic to cats and dogs in the U.S.

In the United States, an estimated 15–30% of people are allergic to pets such as cats and dogs, making this a significant public health issue according to a University of Connecticut study. These allergies commonly result from exposure to proteins found in an animal’s dander, saliva, or urine, especially from household pets like cats and dogs. 

The prevalence of pet allergies has become more prominent and widely recognized as a health concern. Growing awareness of these reactions, combined with the close bonds Americans form with their pets, has fueled demand for innovative treatments including advanced antihistamines and immunotherapies. This trend has led to rapid growth in the U.S. pet allergy treatment market, reflecting the ongoing need for effective remedies for allergy sufferers while allowing them to continue sharing their homes with companion animals

You’re more than twice as likely to be allergic to a cat than a dog.

According to the CDC, cat allergies are more common than dog allergies, with people being more than twice as likely to react to cats. This is largely due to a protein called Fel d 1, found in cat saliva, skin, and dander, which is a particularly strong and persistent allergen. Because it easily becomes airborne and clings to surfaces like clothing and furniture, exposure is difficult to avoid. As a result, cat allergies tend to be more widespread and harder to manage than dog allergies.

As of 2024, 8.6% of U.S. adults have asthma according to the CDC.

Nearly 1 in 12 U.S. adults has asthma, that’s approximately 8.6% of adults 18 years and older, translating to millions living with this chronic respiratory disease. Asthma imposes a substantial burden by limiting daily activities including:

• Increasing healthcare costs
• Reduced productivity 
• Limitations on physical activity
• Emotional and psychological impact

Despite advances in treatment, environmental factors such as pollution and allergens continue to exacerbate asthma prevalence, underscoring ongoing public health challenges in managing and preventing the disease.

Nearly half of Americans, about 156 million people, live in areas where air pollution levels are unhealthy,

According to the American Lung Association’s 2025 “State of the Air” report, nearly half of Americans live in areas where air pollution levels are unhealthy. This means widespread exposure to dangerous levels of ozone and fine particulate matter. 

Why This Matters:

1. Increases mortality risks, including from cancer. 
2. Factors like extreme heat and the rising frequency of wildfires are worsening air quality.
3. It’s harder for many communities to breathe safely and increasing the urgency for stronger pollution controls and public health protections across the U.S.

In 2023, there were 3,624 deaths due to asthma in the United States, which is approximately 9 people per day.

Asthma-related mortality remains a critical concern, with 3,624 deaths attributable to asthma in the U.S. in 2023, averaging roughly nine deaths each day. These fatalities often result from severe asthma attacks that are poorly managed or untreated, highlighting gaps in asthma care and emergency preparedness. Reducing asthma deaths requires improved access to medications, patient education, and timely medical intervention.

42.5 million U.S. adults are living with an anxiety disorder, making it the most common mental health condition in the country

Air pollution may raise anxiety risk, which is concerning since anxiety disorders affect approximately 42.5 million adults in the United States (LA Outpatient Center), making them the most common mental health condition in the country. Air pollution, especially exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen oxides, has been increasingly linked to higher rates of anxiety symptoms and disorders. A recent study (2025 review in Frontiers in Psychiatry), found that increased PM2.5 exposure raises the risk of anxiety in both adults and adolescents, likely due to neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. This finding suggests that poor air quality can directly impact mental health, making clean air a crucial part of preventing and managing anxiety.

About 8.3% of U.S. adults experienced major depression in 2021 according to the NIH.

Research shows that for every small increase in air pollution from nitrogen dioxide, the risk of depression can double (Vert et.al., 2017). Major depressive disorder impacts about 8.8% of U.S. adults each year, leading to emotional distress, reduced work productivity, and a higher risk of chronic disease and suicide. According to the European Environment Agency’s 2025 report there is an association between air pollution and increased risk for depression and cognitive impairment in adults across diverse settings. This underscores the urgent need for expanded mental health services and policies that address access and stigma.

The EPA reported about 66 million tons of pollution were emitted into the atmosphere in the U.S. in 2023.

In 2023, the United States released approximately 66 million tons of pollutants into the atmosphere, originating from industry, transportation, agriculture, and wildfires. This figure is down 1.9% from 2022. However, this is still a substantial emission volume that contributes to poor air quality, climate change, and adverse health outcomes such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Continued regulatory efforts and clean energy adoption are vital to curbing these emissions.

Over 88 million people in the U.S. are exposed to unhealthy levels of fine particle pollution (PM2.5) all year long, exceeding the national air quality standard.

PM2.5 refers to tiny particles in the air, smaller than the width of a human hair, that can be breathed deep into the lungs and harm your health. Over 88 million Americans experience continual exposure to PM2.5 levels above the EPA’s national standard, increasing their risk for diseases like asthma, heart disease, and stroke. Persistent high pollution levels affect urban centers and vulnerable communities disproportionately, underscoring environmental justice concerns and the need for targeted interventions to improve air quality.

COPD affects roughly 16 million adults in the U.S. according to the CDC.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) impacts around 11.7 million adults in the U.S., causing progressive airflow limitation and breathing difficulties. COPD is primarily caused by smoking and long-term exposure to lung irritants, including pollution and occupational hazards. It significantly reduces quality of life and contributes to high rates of hospitalization and mortality, prompting a need for enhanced prevention and comprehensive disease management.

Asthma is more common in female adults (9.7%) than male adults (6.2%).

In the U.S., adult women (18 years and older) are disproportionately affected by asthma compared to men, with prevalence rates of 9.7% versus 6.2%. 

Men vs. Women: Asthma Prevalence and Impact in U.S. Adults

Aspect	Women	Men
Prevalence	9.7%	6.2%
Impact	Higher burden, more severe symptoms	Lower burden, less severe symptoms
Healthcare Use	More visits, hospitalizations, meds	Lower use

In 2024, there were 64,897 fires in the U.S.

According to the National Interagency Fire Center, the U.S. recorded 64,897 fire incidents in 2024, encompassing wildfires, structural fires, and others. These events not only pose immediate risks to life and property but also produce large quantities of smoke and air pollutants that degrade air quality regionally and nationally. The increasing frequency and severity of fires are linked to climate change and land management practices.

What are the top 3 pollutants wildfires add to the air?

1. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10)
2. Carbon monoxide (CO)
3. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other hazardous gases (e.g., nitrogen oxides, formaldehyde, benzene)

Nearly 85% of wildfires are caused by humans according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

Human activities, including unattended campfires, discarded cigarettes, and arson, are responsible for nearly 85% of U.S. wildfires. This high rate of human-caused fires highlights the importance of education, regulation, and enforcement to prevent ignitions, protect communities, and reduce environmental damage.

Record-high pollen counts have been documented recently, with Atlanta reaching 14,801 grains per cubic meter, the highest since records began for the city.

Atlanta recently recorded an unprecedented pollen count of 14,801 grains per cubic meter, far exceeding prior highs and reflective of environmental shifts due to climate change. Such extreme pollen levels exacerbate seasonal allergies and asthma, placing significant strain on healthcare systems and affected individuals.

Nearly one in five children have been diagnosed with seasonal allergies, primarily due to pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds.

Approximately 20% of U.S. children have seasonal allergies caused mainly by airborne pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. These allergies manifest as sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes, impairing children’s comfort and daily activities during peak pollen seasons. Early diagnosis and management can improve outcomes and quality of life for these children.

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifiers can remove at least 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns.

HEPA air purifiers are highly effective in capturing 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and some bacteria. This capability makes HEPA filters a vital tool for improving indoor air quality and reducing exposure to common allergens and pollutants, thereby benefiting respiratory health.

There are over 100,000 known species of mold.

Mold comprises a vast group of fungi with over 100,000 species identified worldwide, playing essential ecological roles in organic material decomposition. However, many species thrive indoors under damp conditions and can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and other health issues in humans.

An estimated 47% of U.S. buildings contain some degree of mold problem.

Nearly half of U.S. buildings show evidence of mold growth, typically resulting from moisture intrusion, leaks, or inadequate ventilation. Indoor mold exposure can trigger allergies and respiratory symptoms, making mold prevention and remediation critical components of maintaining healthy indoor environments.

94 million U.S. households currently own at least one pet.

Pet ownership is widespread in the U.S., with 94 million households having one or more pets. This widespread ownership impacts social dynamics, public health, and the economy, driving veterinary healthcare markets and increasing the importance of addressing pet-related issues such as allergies and zoonotic diseases.

The CDC estimated about 45 million flu illnesses as of early 2025.

By early 2025, the CDC estimated there had been approximately 45 million cases of influenza in the U.S., reflecting a severe flu season with high transmission rates. Influenza continues to pose major public health challenges due to its potential for hospitalization and mortality, reinforcing the need for vaccination and preventive measures yearly.

Household air pollution, which includes dust and particulate matter indoors, contributes to 3.2 million premature deaths annually worldwide.

Household air pollution, which includes dust, smoke, and particulate matter generated indoors primarily from the incomplete combustion of solid fuels and kerosene used for cooking and heating, causes approximately 3.2 million premature deaths globally each year, according to the World Health Organization’s 2024 report. This pollution inflames airways and lungs, weakens the immune system, and reduces the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity. These avoidable deaths underscore the urgent need for widespread access to cleaner household energy sources and improved ventilation in homes worldwide.

Allergic rhinitis affects up to 60 million people per year in the U.S.

Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is a widespread condition that impacts up to 60 million Americans each year. It is typically triggered by airborne allergens such as pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. Symptoms can include sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, and itchy eyes, often affecting daily functioning and quality of life. The high prevalence highlights the significant public health burden of pollen-related allergies.

Pollen-related medical costs exceed $3 billion annually in the U.S., with nearly half spent on prescription medications.

Treating pollen-induced allergic conditions places a substantial financial strain on the U.S. healthcare system, with annual costs surpassing $3 billion. Nearly half of these expenses are attributed to prescription medications used to manage symptoms such as antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and leukotriene inhibitors. Beyond direct medical costs, indirect costs from missed work or school and reduced productivity further elevate the economic impact. This emphasizes the importance of preventive strategies and improved allergy management.

Carbon dioxide levels climbed to about 426.6 ppm on average in 2025

In 2025, atmospheric carbon dioxide levels reached an average of 426.6 parts per million (ppm), the highest in at least two million years. This sharp increase is driven by the continued burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, both of which add vast amounts of CO₂ to the atmosphere. Elevated CO₂ levels trap more heat, intensifying global warming and disrupting climate patterns. This milestone underscores how far current emissions trends have veered from targets set to avoid the most dangerous climate impacts.

Atmospheric CO₂ Levels by Decade:

Decade	Approx. Annual Growth Rate (ppm/year)	Starting CO₂ (ppm)	Ending CO₂ (ppm)
1970s	~1.50	~325 ppm (1970)	~338 ppm (1979)
1980s	~1.56	~339 ppm (1980)	~354 ppm (1989)
1990s	~1.55	~354 ppm (1990)	~369 ppm (1999)
2000s	~2.04	~370 ppm (2000)	~389 ppm (2009)
2010s	~2.43	~390 ppm (2010)	~411 ppm (2019)
2015–2024	~2.60	~400 ppm (2015)	~426–427 ppm (2024)

450 gigatonnes of ice melted during 2024, contributing to over 9,000 gigatonnes lost since 1975

In 2024 alone, the world’s glaciers lost an estimated 450 gigatonnes of ice, accelerating a long-term trend that has resulted in over 9,000 gigatonnes of ice lost since 1975. This rapid melting contributes significantly to sea level rise and threatens freshwater supplies for millions who depend on glacial runoff. As glaciers shrink, they also reduce Earth’s ability to reflect sunlight, further amplifying warming. The scale and pace of ice loss are clear indicators of a rapidly warming planet.

Approximately 10% of the global population is allergic to dust mites.

Dust mites are microscopic creatures that thrive in warm, humid indoor environments and feed on dead skin cells. Although these mites themselves don’t bite, their fecal particles—containing potent allergens, are the main triggers for allergic reactions. Globally, about one in ten people experience dust mite allergies, but among individuals with allergic asthma, this figure skyrockets to around 90%. This dramatic disparity highlights that dust mites are not only widespread allergens but also especially dangerous for those with asthma, significantly worsening respiratory symptoms.