Harlem Tops Manhattan In Asthma Cases, Study Finds

HARLEM, NY — Adults living in Harlem may be more susceptible to suffering from Asthma due to poor housing conditions that lead to asthma triggers such as mold and pests, according to a new study from Localize.city.

Central Harlem topped all neighborhoods in Manhattan with a rate of nearly 12 adults out of every 100 suffering from asthma, according to data collected and analyzed by Localize.city. East Harlem ranked second with a rate of 11 out 100 and West Harlem ranked third with a rate of 10 out of 100.

With Washington Heights, Inwood and Morningside Heights slotting in behind the Harlem trio, the borough's top 6 neighborhoods with the highest asthma rates are all located above 110th Street.

Localize.city released interactive maps tracking the rate of asthma, mold violations and pest violations in every city neighborhood to coincide with the city's new Asthma Free Housing Act taking effect on Jan. 19.

"A fresh coat of paint often covers up serious maintenance problems which New Yorkers only uncover after moving in," Localize.city President Steve Kalifowitz said in a statement. "Having done one of the most extensive studies on housing violations, we’re enabling all New Yorkers to know if the building and apartment they’re considering moving into have been well-maintained."

The city's new law will require landlords to conduct more frequent inspections of apartments and common areas as well as fix any issues such as leaks and pest problems that contribute to asthma triggers such as mold.

Check out Localize.city's interactive map of NYC asthma rates below:

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