With concerns rising about the impact of AI data centers on local communities, it’s important to note the impact air pollution can have on people with asthma. Depending on how it is powered and cooled, AI data centers can contribute to air pollution.

Air pollution is a top asthma trigger. Increases in air pollution may result in increased asthma symptoms - and increased difficulty managing asthma.

In AAFA’s 2025 Asthma Capitals report, these are the Top 10 cities for asthma-related emergency room (ER) visits - noting when air pollution worsens, these visits may become more common:

1. Milwaukee, WI

2. Louisville, KY

3. Memphis, TN

4. Virginia Beach, VA

5. Madison, WI

6. Allentown, PA

7. Oklahoma City, OK

8. Stockton, CA

9. Dayton, OH

10. Columbus, OH