Asthma Facts
Asthma is the most common childhood illness. Asthma is recorded as the leading cause of serious chronic illness among children nationwide and is the #1 reason children are absent from school. (Children’s Environmental Health Network, 2003; aafa.org).
Which of the following are outdoor environmental triggers for asthma? Ozone, Pollen, Dust, Chemicals/Pesticides, Wildfires/Smoke and Second-Hand Smoke can be triggers for asthma. www.dep.state.fl.us/air/
What is the primary source of outdoor air pollution in southeast Florida? Cars, trucks, ships and airplanes (transportation); In Southeast Florida about half of our air pollution comes from transportation. Every time you start and use your car, you are adding to our air pollution.
Being diagnosed with asthma means you can not participate in activities like sports, exercise, band, or being outside? False.If you manage your asthma you can participate in almost any physical or sport activity. In fact, many pro athletes have asthma. (American Lung Association, 2007).
True. There are more than 4,000 deaths due to asthma each year, many of which are avoidable with proper treatment and care. (www.aafa.org)
1 in 15 people have asthma.
www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=8&sub=42
Asthma can be [controlled] with medication. Currently, there is no cure for asthma. It is important to educate yourself about asthma prevention and management because asthma can be controlled. You should talk to your doctor to discuss how to best control your asthma. (www.lungusa.org)
False. Asthma is a serious lung disease. It can be life threatening. Wheezing, coughing, or gasping symptoms should be taken seriously.
Reducing environmental triggers helps prevent asthma attacks.
True. It is well documented that environmental factors play a big role in making asthma worse and can increase your risk in developing asthma. It is crucial we understand these environmental triggers and learn how to prevent, minimize or control them. (Johns Hopkins School of Public Health)
Which are indoor environmental triggers for asthma? Gas stoves, Mold, Bleach, Candles, Cockroaches, Air fresheners, Cigarette Smoke
These triggers can make asthma worse. Everyone does not have the same triggers. Learning what triggers make your asthma worse makes avoiding them easier. Your health provider can help you.
Which of these asthma symptoms are you aware of?
Continuous coughing, Wheezing, Shortness of breath, Difficulty talking, and Lips or fingers turning gray or blue. It is important to know asthma symptoms especially when you are caring for a child. If symptoms are ignored, and treatment is not immediately received during an asthma attack, respiratory failure may occur.
ALL occupations may actually have the potential to cause asthma. Occupational lung disease is the number one cause of work-related illness in the United States.
