Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease and continues to be a serious public health problem nationwide.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 25.7 million people have asthma, with 7.1 million being children.   Asthma is a breathing problem that makes it more difficult for a person to breathe.  When you have asthma, your breathing tubes are sensitive and may tighten and become inflamed and swollen due to a variety of triggers.  Smoke, pollen, dust, allergies, and air pollution are all examples of asthma triggers, which vary from person to person.

Asthma Facts

• Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood.
• Asthma is the third-ranking cause of hospitalization among children under 15.
• Approximately 14 percent of Illinoisans have asthma (IPHD).
• Asthma prevalence is higher among minorities and persons with family income below the poverty level.
• Air pollution is a known asthma trigger.
• Air pollution is more prevalent in urban environments because of higher concentrations of vehicles and industries.
• Advances in medical treatment and improved methods of controlling environmental triggers allows those with asthma to live healthy and active lives.

Metro East Community Air Project
618-514-7854
1 Regency Plaza
Collinsville, IL 62234