Federal statistics released earlier showed Escambia also is No. 1 in the state and 18th nationally in toxic chemical emissions and seventh nationally in toxic air emissions. The Lung Association's report issued Tuesday is based on ozone measurements in 1997-99.
Ozone can trigger asthma attacks and aggravate bronchitis and emphysema.
Some physicians suspect air and water pollution may contribute to high rates of some cancers, birth defects and other problems in the Pensacola area. Fetterman, a retired Navy vice admiral, is worried that the pollution, and the attention it has generated, is adversely affecting the area's image. At least one business has reconsidered plans to expand local operations. Escambia County Commissioner Mike Bass, meanwhile, has proposed creating a team of industry representatives, health experts, academicians and citizens to look for ways to reduce air pollution. Scarborough already had been looking for money in the federal budget to pay for a Pensacola area pollution study.