A new analysis has revealed alarming disparities in lung health across the United States, placing a spotlight on states where breathing may be more dangerous than elsewhere. From poor air quality to high smoking rates and weak anti-smoking policies, the report, conducted by Opera Beds using data from the American Lung Association, EPA, and other sources, paints a concerning picture—particularly for residents in the Midwest and South.According to the report, Indiana ranks as the worst state for lung health, followed closely by Ohio and Alaska. Meanwhile, Colorado and Hawaii top the list as the healthiest places for your lungs. So, what’s driving these differences? And what can be done to protect our lungs—no matter where we live?Why Lung Health Is a Critical Concern?Lung health isn’t just about breathing a little easier—it’s tied to survival. Millions of Americans suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and lung cancer, with respiratory illnesses killing thousands every year. Lung disease doesn’t always show symptoms early on, and by the time it does, it can be deadly. That’s why public health experts stress the importance of early prevention—and why where you live might matter more than you think. Opera Beds compiled its rankings using multiple factors that influence lung health:Smoking prevalenceState-wide smokefree air policiesAmbient air pollution levels (PM2.5)Climate factors like temperature and humidityThe final scores ranged from 4.04 to 9.11 out of 10.The 10 Worst US States for Lung HealthIndiana landed at the bottom with a score of 4.04, driven largely by a high adult smoking rate of 16.2%, well above the national average of 11%. Making matters worse, only 31.5% of Indiana's population is covered by comprehensive smokefree indoor air laws—meaning many Hoosiers are still exposed to secondhand smoke in public places.Following Indiana were:Ohio (4.72)Alaska (4.79)PennsylvaniaMichiganNevadaTennesseeLouisianaMississippiKentuckyThese states tend to have a combination of lax tobacco laws, higher-than-average pollution levels, or climates that exacerbate respiratory illness. Alaska, for instance, faces unique challenges from wildfire smoke and extreme seasonal fluctuations, while states like Nevada struggle with dry air and particulate pollution from desert regions.The Healthiest US States for LungsAt the other end of the spectrum, Colorado and Hawaii each earned a top score of 9.11, thanks to low smoking rates, strong public health protections, and generally cleaner air.“According to our data, the West Coast is the best place to live in the U.S. in terms of lung health,” Opera Beds noted. “Six of the top 10 states are located on the western side of the country... suggesting that those on the West Coast may be less likely to develop respiratory conditions like COPD.”Other top-performers included New Mexico, Washington, Oregon, and Vermont, with many of these states also benefiting from investments in clean energy, stricter smoking laws, and higher public awareness about air quality.Interestingly, California presents a mixed picture. Despite facing high levels of air pollution in urban hubs like Los Angeles and the Central Valley, it still made the higher end of the ranking. Thanks to comprehensive tobacco control policies, strong public health infrastructure, and efforts to reduce vehicle emissions.This suggests that policy intervention can significantly offset environmental risk factors—something other states should take note of.What You Can Do To Protect Your Lungs?Even if you live in a high-risk state, there are steps you can take to guard your lung health:1. Quit Smoking (Or Don’t Start)Cigarette smoking is still the number one preventable cause of lung disease and cancer. Smoking inflames and narrows airways, destroys lung tissue, and can trigger chronic conditions like emphysema and bronchitis.2. Get Regular Lung CheckupsDon't wait for a serious cough to get evaluated. Regular checkups help detect early signs of lung problems. Ask your provider to monitor your breathing, especially if you have a history of smoking or environmental exposure.3. Stay Physically ActiveExercise improves your lung capacity and helps oxygen circulate more efficiently. Brisk walking, swimming, or even light aerobic activity can support long-term lung function.4. Limit Indoor PollutantsYou might not realize it, but indoor air can be more polluted than what’s outside. Reduce your exposure by using air filters, ventilating well, and avoiding products with harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.Be aware of mold, radon, and secondhand smoke—major triggers for respiratory disease.5. Watch Outdoor Air QualityOn days when pollution levels spike, especially in summer, limit time outdoors—particularly near roads. Use resources like AirNow.gov to check your area’s daily air quality index (AQI).This isn’t just about red states or blue states. It’s about air, policies, and health outcomes that affect every breath we take.