Asthma: A Local Concern
Long Beach is the fifth largest city in California and with that comes continuous challenges in keeping this community safe for its citizens. One challenge that has become very evident in recent years is the number of children living with asthma. According to the Long Beach Alliance for Children with Asthma (LBACA), it is estimated that 15% of children in Long Beach are living with Asthma. This coalition works with the community, families and schools to help provide education and support in bringing awareness to this increasing health concern.
The LBACA reports that low income and minority populations have the highest asthma morbidity rates. Long Beach has a diverse population; therefore this particular coalition has a vision—The Long Beach Alliance for Children with Asthma is a partnership to improve the lives of children with asthma in our community. LBACA also:
- Expanded the Community Health Worker program and outreach efforts into new areas of Long Beach
- Provided PACE training to local additional providers
- Continued local policy efforts to include decreasing household environmental triggers and improvements in outdoor air quality
- continued the Tools for Schools program
Facts to Know About Asthma
Triggers:
- Smoke and strong odors
- Pets
- Mold
- Dust, dust mites
- Pollen (grass, trees, plants and weeds)
- Pests (cockroaches or rodents)
- Certain foods
- Infections (flu and colds)
- Exercise
- Changes in weather
- Strong emotions
- Pollution
- Some medications (aspirin)
Signs and Symptoms:
- Coughing (day, night or with exercise)
- Trouble breathing
- Wheezing (whistling noise)
- Tightness in chest
- Trouble sleeping/waking up in the middle of the night
- Drop in peak flow meter
- Irritability
The Long Beach Alliance for Children with Asthma is an organization that you can get involved with and help out in our local community.
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