STATE OF OPPORTUNITY. Can Kids in Michigan Get Ahead?
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This special reporting project wrapped up in May 2017. Read more.

New documentary on growing up in poverty and pollution

abandoned toy in dump
Geraint Rowland
/
Flickr

Reports about pollution and environmental degradation can easily seem like something that happens somewhere else.

And when the impact isn't visible on the surface, the health effects can go unchecked and be devastating for children.

In a new State of Opportunity documentary airing this Thursday, Michigan Radio's Lester Graham, looks at the impact of environmental pollution on children who live in poverty. 

He'll speak with researchers and medical professionals about the high rates of lead poisoning and increased asthma rates amongst children in the Detroit area. The impact of environmental pollution also extends to poor academic performance

graph of air pollution in Detroit and metro area
Credit Paul Mohai, Byoung-Suk Kweon, Sangyun Lee and Kerry Ard / "Air Pollution Around Schools Is Linked To Poorer Student Health And Academic Performance" in Health Affairs
/
"Air Pollution Around Schools Is Linked To Poorer Student Health And Academic Performance" in Health Affairs
Median Total Air Pollution Concentrations Within ChiTwo Kilometers Of Schools And In Larger Areas, 1999–2006

We've looked at how trauma impacts children's stress levels. That story continues as Lester speaks with parents witnessing stress related illnesses in their children who live in fear of criminal activity in their neighborhoods. 

Lester also talk with activists and parents about the risks their children face and what we should be doing to help children live healthier lives. 

Growing Up in Poverty and Pollution airs this Thursday  at 3pm and 10pm

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