Breathing Easier: Messages For AsthmaRelief (NAPSA)—More than 17 million people in the U.S have asthma—morepeople than live in the state of Florida. Asthma is also the most common chronic disease amongchildren, affecting five million in the U.S. alone. It is the leading cause of school absences due to a chronic disease among children ages 5 to 17, causing more than 10 million absences each year. Asthma also accounts for more hospitalizations than any other childhood disease. Children with asthma spend an estimated 7.3 million days per yearrestricted to bed. Some asthma symptoms include exercise-induced coughing, frequent shortness of breath, wheezing sounds when breathing, or tightness in the chest. According to the Chronic Disease Directors (CDD), a Washington, D.C.-based public health association, it is important for people to see a doctor if they have any asthma symptoms. Asthmacanbelife-threatening if not properly managed, but it can be controlled by avoidingtriggers that cause attacks and by using fast-acting inhalers and other medications to treat acute attacks and maintain long-term control. It is important for people with asthma to use their inhalers and other medications exactly as prescribed. Asthmatriggers, such as cigarette smoke, dust mites, molds, some gases and other airborne particles, are everywhere—indoors and outdoors. It is important for those with asthma to learn what specific triggers may Avoiding triggers and properly using medications can help those with asthma lead an active life. cause an attack for them. Avoiding asthma triggers, learning to recognize the symp- toms of an asthma attack, and using appropriate treatments can allow those with asthma to enjoy an active lifestyle, prevent emergency room visits and reduce the numberof school absences. Free asthma screenings are offered; to find a free screening, contact the chronic disease unit of the state health department. The Chronic Disease Directors is a Washington, D.C.-based public health organization comprised of chronic disease program directors of each state and U.S. Territory. CDD works to reduce the impact of chronic diseases on the American population. Since its founding in 1988, CDD has made impressive strides in mobilizing national efforts to reduce chronic diseases and the associated risk factors. To learn more visit www.ChronicDisease.org.
