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Public Health Solutions
District Health Department
975 East Hwy 33, Ste 1
Crete, NE 68333-2562
888.310.0565
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Asthma
Asthma is a serious health concern in Nebraska. It is a reversible lung disease in which airflow through the bronchial tubes is blocked. Asthma episodes can range from mild to life-threatening, and occur as a result of exposure to certain 'triggers' which vary from person to person. Some common environmental triggers include:
- Second-hand tobacco smoke
- Mold
- Animal dander
- Ragweed pollen
- Dust Mites
- Cockroach waste
- Fumes (cleaning fluid, paint, pesticide, etc.)
- Air pollution (e.g. car exhaust)
- Perfumes
The most recent reports on asthma across the state indicated that Nebraska has the second highest asthma mortality rate in the country, and while the rest of the country's rates are decreasing, Nebraska's are on the rise. While most of Nebraska deaths have traditionally occurred among those 65 years of age and older, the highest asthma emergency room visit and hospitalization rates have been among children 14 and under. In addition to its risk to human health, asthma contributes to economic and educational loss in the form of ER visits, missed school and work days, and costly hospitalizations.
Environmental asthma triggers should be removed to the extent possible to help prevent episodes, and a physician's advice should be sought on how to best manage and possibly even alleviate the symptoms of chronic asthma over time.
American Lung Association
www.lungusa.org
Nebraska Health and Human Services System "Asthma in Nebraska"
www.hhs.state.ne.us/epi/asthma.htm
Community Health Education Initiative
www.communityasthma.org
Attack on Asthma Nebraska
www.attackonasthma.org
School Health News Lincoln Lancaster County Health Department
www.ci.lincoln.ne.us/city/health/school
The Nebraska Medical Center
www.nebraskamed.com/healthinfo
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