New reports show Indiana has the worst lung health in the country 

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. -- Hazy skies have made their way to many parts of St. Joseph County and a new study shows Indiana sits at number one for the worst lung health in the nation.

On days where air quality is poor, spending extended periods outdoors may hurt your health in the long run.

A study released by Opera Beds shows Indiana sits at 4.04 out of 10 on the worst lung health score.

There are a few reasons why Indiana is the worst state for lung health. One being taxes on tobacco products are on the lower end, and because of that tobacco products are more affordable.

But another big reason for poor lung health is the many coal fire power plants across the state. These plants release pollutants into the air that cause poor air quality across the state.

Despite the poor air quality, many people at Central Park still enjoyed the weather, playing pickleball on the courts.

One player, Monica Gullon says, "I play about three days a week. I like to get in three to four games at least.”

Gullon is originally from California and is used to checking the air quality before she goes out.

Gullon said, “I did realize the air quality was bad today, but you know, the temperature is so nice, so I just thought well I'm not going to work out that long. So, I'm not that concerned.”

On days where air quality is poor, spending extended time outside can come with risks.

Nikos Zirogiannis, an Assistant Professor of Environmental Economics and Environmental Policy at Indiana University told ABC57, “When those pollutants are emitted, they can harm public health.”

People with respiratory issues are vulnerable to air pollution but everyone can feel the effects of poor air quality over time.

Zirogiannis says, “Those impacts of exposure to air pollution can be cumulative. They can take many years to manifest.”

You can prevent the long-lasting effects of poor air quality by wearing a tight-fitting mask outdoors when air quality is poor or use an air purifier in your home. The biggest precaution to take during poor air quality days is to stay inside.

Zirogiannis says, "The advice that public health officials provide is that people should stay indoors on days when air pollution readings are very high.”

According to the American Lung Association, nearly half of the US population lives within unhealthy levels of air pollution.

On days when advisories are in place make sure to avoid spending long hours outdoors to protect your overall health.