Fact 1

Asthma is a chronic disease that makes it hard to get air in and out of lungs during asthma attacks.

Fact 2

Asthma attacks can be prevented, but not cured. Prevention includes staying active and healthy, and taking asthma medications as directed.

Fact 3

Asthma attacks can be fatal if they are very severe and not treated.

Fact 4

The warning signs of an asthma attack include coughing, tightness in the chest, restlessness and wheezing.

Fact 5

Things in the environment can set off asthma attacks. Common triggers include: smoking, dust and dust mites, pollen, pets (the “dandruff” from their skin), stress, breathing cold air/weather changes, colds and respiratory infections, air pollution and second-hand smoke.

Fact 6

The causes of asthma are not really understood, but there is often a family history of asthma, eczema or hayfever. Asthma can begin at any age and change over time.

Fact 7

More than 17 million people in the US have been diagnosed with asthma.

Fact 8

Asthma affects more than 4.8 million children, making it the most common serious and chronic disease among children.

Fact 9

African-American children with asthma, most often from inner city populations, experience more severe disability from asthma and have more frequent hospitalizations than do white children.

Fact 10

Asthma is one of the leading causes of childhood admission to hospital and absenteeism from school.

Fact 11

More than 200,000 children with asthma experience more severe symptoms due to exposure to secondhand smoke.

Sources:
American Lung Association
Center for Disease Control and Prevention
Asthma Research Online
University of Michigan Health System