Reply to comment

No one knows the cause of asthma, but researchers have identified a number of sources of indoor and outdoor pollution that can trigger attacks. They include allergies, dust mites, cockroach parts and pollution, including ozone. Scientists have isolated the genetic changes to the lungs that occur when exposed to particulate matter, a key component of smog.

Despite the growth of the disease, neither the state nor the county keep yearly track of asthma cases. Accurate stats are not kept, but the disease could affect 20 percent of the population. There is no cure, not even on the horizon.

Some scientists think rising asthma cases, especially among the young, are due in part to younger generations being exposed to more chemical pollutants than previous generations. Ozone depletion, increased use of automobiles and urbanization create environments conducive to asthma.

Although asthma can occur early or late in life, it is most commonly associated with children. Many asthma cases are mild, but some can be very serious. Children's Medical Center has witnessed the rapid rise.

Days when we have high ozone can be real difficult for us. Asthma is the leading chronic disease among children, according to the American Lung Association.

A study, released by the Environmental Health Commission, found that a child born a generation from now will be twice as likely to develop asthma as a child born today. National deaths are expected to double from 5,000 to 10,000 by the end of the decade. The study found that many asthma cases go undiagnosed or sufferers do not have access to proper care.

We are really passive witnesses to this unfolding public health catastrophe. Researchers believe the rise of asthma cases stem from a variety of factors. That something has changed in the indoor environment, such as an increased use of chemicals.

Doctors stress that asthma is a disease that must be managed. In the past decade new treatments have emerged, such as the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and steroid inhalers.

Experts emphasize prevention while looking for ways to raise awareness, especially among low-income people in urban areas.

The report recommends:

* Initiate a public information campaign

* Develop research to identify asthma risk factors

* Establish a nationwide tracking system to gather information on asthma trends and environmental causes

* Establish a 9-1-1 Force at the Centers for Disease Control to investigate asthma deaths

There are effective, easy treatments. We can make an impact.