Chattanooga Asthma Rates Remain High

New report highlights ongoing challenges for local residents managing chronic respiratory condition.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 3:25am

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A new report from the Chattanooga Department of Health has found that asthma rates in the city remain stubbornly high, with over 25,000 residents currently living with the chronic respiratory condition. The report cites a range of environmental and socioeconomic factors contributing to the prevalence of asthma, including air pollution, access to quality healthcare, and economic disparities.

Why it matters

Asthma is a major public health issue in Chattanooga, with the condition disproportionately impacting lower-income and minority communities. Uncontrolled asthma can lead to debilitating symptoms, frequent emergency room visits, and missed school and work days, underscoring the need for comprehensive solutions to address this persistent challenge.

The details

The report found that asthma rates in Chattanooga are nearly 20% higher than the national average, with certain neighborhoods seeing even more acute concentrations of the condition. Factors like proximity to major highways, industrial facilities, and lack of access to quality healthcare and asthma management resources were identified as key drivers of the problem.

  • The Chattanooga Department of Health released the new asthma report on April 5, 2026.
  • The report analyzed data collected over the past 5 years, from 2021 to 2025.

The players

Chattanooga Department of Health

The local government agency responsible for monitoring and addressing public health issues in the city of Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Dr. Samantha Wilkins

The lead epidemiologist at the Chattanooga Department of Health who oversaw the research and analysis for the asthma report.

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What they’re saying

“Asthma continues to be a major challenge for far too many Chattanooga residents, especially in our most vulnerable communities. We need to take bold, comprehensive action to address the root causes and ensure everyone has access to the care and resources they need.”

— Dr. Samantha Wilkins, Lead Epidemiologist, Chattanooga Department of Health

What’s next

The Chattanooga Department of Health plans to convene a task force of local stakeholders, including healthcare providers, community organizations, and environmental advocates, to develop a strategic action plan to reduce asthma rates and improve outcomes for residents.

The takeaway

Chattanooga's persistent asthma crisis underscores the need for a multi-faceted, community-driven approach to address the complex web of environmental, economic, and healthcare access factors driving this public health challenge. Meaningful progress will require sustained commitment and collaboration across the city.