Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects nearly 28 million people in the United States, equating to about one in 12 individuals. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) recently published its Asthma Capitals report, ranking the 100 most populated U.S. states based on the challenges they pose for people with asthma. It is important to note that this report does not label cities as “bad” for asthma, but rather highlights the factors that can make living with the condition more difficult. Kenneth Mendez, the president and CEO of AAFA, emphasized that high rates of hospitalization or death due to asthma in certain cities indicate a lower quality of life for individuals with the disease.
Factors such as the prevalence of asthma, asthma-related emergency room visits, and asthma-related deaths were taken into account when designating “asthma capitals.” The top cities tend to score higher than average in at least two of these categories. Mendez highlighted that social, economic, and environmental disadvantages play a significant role in determining asthma outcomes, leading to health disparities in many communities. Additionally, risk factors such as air quality, poverty, access to specialists, tobacco policies, medication usage, and lack of health insurance were considered in the report to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges faced by asthma sufferers in different regions.
The AAFA identified the top 20 “asthma capitals,” with Wichita, Kansas, taking the lead as the most challenging city for individuals with asthma. Other cities on the list included Virginia Beach, Virginia; Greenville, South Carolina; Dallas, Texas; and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The full list of 100 asthma capitals can be accessed on the AAFA’s website for further information.
Living in a city deemed an “asthma capital” can be particularly challenging for individuals with the condition. To help manage asthma symptoms in such environments, the AAFA recommends the following tips:
Follow an Asthma Action Plan
Having a comprehensive Asthma Action Plan that includes information about medications, recognizing worsening symptoms, and emergency steps is crucial for controlling asthma effectively.
Get Recommended Vaccines
Getting vaccinated for respiratory infections like the flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumonia can aid in managing asthma symptoms and reducing the risk of complications.
Take Steps to Manage Allergies and Indoor Air Quality
Improving indoor air quality by using certified asthma- and allergy-friendly air cleaners, reducing allergens, and avoiding airway irritants can significantly benefit individuals with asthma.
Follow Infection Protection Protocol
Practicing infection prevention measures such as wearing masks in crowded places, proper hand hygiene, and avoiding sick individuals can help reduce the risk of respiratory infections that may exacerbate asthma symptoms.
Adhere to a Healthy Lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through adequate rest, hydration, and a balanced diet can support overall well-being and make living with asthma more manageable.
Maintain Contact with an Asthma Specialist
Regular communication with an asthma specialist is essential for exploring treatment options that can prevent asthma attacks and improve quality of life for individuals with the condition. Collaborating with healthcare professionals to develop a personalized asthma management plan is key to effectively navigating the challenges associated with living in an asthma capital.
In conclusion, the AAFA’s Asthma Capitals report sheds light on the varying challenges faced by individuals with asthma across different cities in the United States. By understanding the factors that contribute to difficult asthma conditions, individuals can take proactive steps to manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. It is essential for asthma sufferers to follow an Asthma Action Plan, prioritize vaccination, improve indoor air quality, practice infection prevention, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and seek guidance from asthma specialists to effectively navigate the complexities of living with asthma in challenging environments.
