Today, on World Asthma Day, the American Lung Association is urging Congress to reinstate the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Asthma Control Program. The organization also highlights its free Lung Health Navigator program aimed at dispelling myths about asthma and offering comprehensive educational resources.
Asthma affects 26.8 million people in the United States, including 4.5 million children. It causes symptoms such as wheezing, persistent cough, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Through the Breathe Well, Live Well program, the Lung Association provides free support and education to empower adults and caregivers of children with asthma. This includes access to Lung Health Navigators—nurses, respiratory therapists, and other licensed healthcare professionals—who work individually with asthma patients to assess needs and encourage adherence to medical treatment.
“Too often, asthma is misunderstood or minimized," said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. "During Asthma Awareness Month in May and throughout the year, we’re committed to increasing public understanding."
The association offers various evidence-based educational programs for people with asthma. Despite available treatments, many patients face challenges accessing necessary medications. During Asthma Awareness Month, they advocate for Congress to protect Medicaid and CHIP from cuts since these programs cover nearly half of all children with asthma in the U.S.
The reinstatement of the CDC National Asthma Control Program is another focus for advocacy efforts. This program previously funded states to track asthma rates and expand control activities.
For more information on resources or advocacy efforts related to asthma awareness visit Lung.org/asthma-awareness.
