There is overwhelming evidence that environment plays a critical role in our health. Airborne pollution can cause serious health effects, leading to difficulty in breathing, activity limitation, missed school and work, increased use of medication, doctor visits, emergency room trips, and hospital admissions. Fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) is of particular concern because it can to travel deeply into the respiratory tract, reaching the lungs.

Because of the congestion and mixed land use endemic to cities, urban areas pose the greatest health risks, especially for children. Apartment living poses special challenges for people with asthma and allergies. The cooperation of landlords is important. To ensure that asthma does not pose a barrier to a healthy and active life for every child, environmental factors that contribute to asthma must be addressed.

Manage your environment, manage your asthma. Follow the Air Quality Index. Learn what triggers your asthma and take steps to avoid exposure to it.