Sacramento Named Top Asthma Capital of Western U.S.

The city earned the designation based on its high rates of asthma, hospitalizations, and deaths.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Asthma

Bold vector editorial illustration of a valley floor trapped between mountain silhouettes, with a heavy haze layer representing Sacramento air quality. — The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America has ranked Sacramento as the asthma capital of the western United States, citing poor air quality and limited medical resources. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America has named Sacramento the asthma capital of the western United States. The ranking highlights significant challenges faced by residents in the region due to asthma-related health issues.

Why it matters

The ranking brings attention to the severe respiratory risks facing residents, including poor air quality and limited access to specialized medical care. Understanding these regional factors is essential for addressing the health needs of the community.

The report evaluated 100 of the largest cities in the contiguous United States using metrics such as asthma rates, emergency room visits, and mortality. While California ranks 10th nationally, Pennsylvania currently holds the highest state-level burden.

The players

Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America

This is a non-profit organization that provides information, research, and support for people with asthma and allergic diseases.

The details

Sacramento's location in a geographic bowl between the Sierra Nevada and Coast Ranges traps car exhaust, ground-level ozone, and pollen. These pollutants, combined with low RSV vaccination rates and a shortage of asthma specialists, create significant health risks for local residents.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America published its report in 2026.

The Big Picture

This report follows the pattern set by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America's 2026 asthma challenge rankings by highlighting regional health disparities. It serves as a benchmark for local environmental health performance compared to national trends.

Residents should consult with primary care providers to manage potential exposure to trapped pollutants and check local air quality warnings. Individuals may also consider verifying the availability of local specialists to ensure they have adequate access to respiratory care.

The takeaway

Sacramento residents living in the Central Valley should prioritize monitoring air quality indexes during warm summer days when pollutants become trapped. Proactive management of environmental triggers can significantly improve respiratory health outcomes.