1 in 12 Americans Have Asthma

May 10, 2011
Harold Mandel

Boy being treated for a severe asthma attack - Sura Nualpradid

Asthma can be a serious condition which is rising at alarming rates in the United States.

Asthma is a chronic disease of the lungs which occurs at any age but which is more common in children than adults. MayoClinic.com has reported that when you have asthma your airways become narrow and swell, and because your airways produce extra mucus, breathing becomes difficult.

Coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath are the most common signs and symptoms of asthma. Sometimes asthma is just a minor problem. However, asthma can be a serious problem that interferes with daily activities for many people. People with severe asthma may be at risk for life-threatening asthma attacks. Although there is no cure for asthma its symptoms can be controlled.

Asthma has become a more serious problem in the United States over the years despite efforts to reduce toxic emissions and smog and to cut down on the prevalence of cigarette smoking. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported that the rates of asthma rose by more than 12% between 2001 and 2009. At present it is estimated that about 8% of Americans, or 1 out of every 12 residents, has asthma, says Dan Shapley in his article " CDC: 1 in 12 Now has Asthma " published in the Daily Green.

Poor Children, Most Often Poor Black Children, are Affected Most by Asthma

Asthma has increased among all demographic groups. However, children, particularly poor children, and most often poor black children, are most commonly affected by asthma. Boys get asthma more often than girls, and women come down with asthma more often than men. The researchers for a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention did not attempt to ascertain the causes for the increased prevalence of asthma. The CDC researchers have written "Although probable causes for the increase in asthma are unclear, CDC's top priority is getting people to manage their asthma better."

The researchers have identified genetic predisposition, allergies, health risk factors including smoking and obesity, exposure to environmental allergens and pollutants as factors that may be associated with an increase in asthma rates. The researchers have said "In particular, obesity and exposure to tobacco smoke each have been associated with increased asthma severity."

Five Steps are Recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency to Prevent Asthma Attacks

The Environmental Protection Agency has recommended five steps to prevent asthma attacks. People who smoke are advised to smoke outside instead of in their homes or cars since second-hand smoke is a common trigger of asthma. The Air Quality Index should be checked to determine when the air quality is unhealthy since ozone and particle pollution can set off asthma attacks. Also, since dust mites can trigger asthma you should keep your mattresses, pillows, sheets and blankets clean. Since pets can trigger asthma, any pets you have should be kept out of your bedroom and off your furniture. Finally, since mold can trigger asthma, you should make certain your home is free of mold.

Emergency Help is Necessary if Quick Relief Meds Fail to Help

If you experience coughing which lasts more than a few days or any other signs or symptoms of asthma, you should see your doctor. The early treatment of asthma, particularly in children, may help to prevent long-term lung damage and keep the condition from getting worse. Remember, if the quick-relief medications you use do not relieve the symptoms of a severe asthma attack you should get emergency help. The signs of an asthma emergency are rapid worsening of shortness of breath or wheezing, no improvement of your condition even after you use a quick-relief inhaler such as albuterol, and shortness of breath with minimal physical activity.