Asthmais a lung disease that restricts the airways, making it difficult to breathe.
Genetics
Experts generally agree that there is a genetic component thatincreases the risk of asthma.
But having agene in your DNAdoesn’t automatically mean you’ll develop asthma.
Zoe Hansen / Verywell
Environmental factors must also be present, so genetics is only one part of the explanation for asthma disparities.
Environment
Your surroundings can greatly impact your asthma.
A persons physical environment plays a big role in asthma outcomes because asthma is often triggered by an irritant.
It’s well-documented that people of color are more likely to experienceunequal access to health careand health insurance.
What’s more, many experts hypothesize that these figures are likely underestimated and could be higher.
Because the inequities are complex, solutions will require a multifaceted approach across medicine.
Health inequities in asthma exist for a variety of complex reasons.
Remember that you are not at fault for being diagnosed with asthma.
Do what you might to avoid asthma triggers and advocate for better treatment if you feel it’s needed.
However, a child may not know how to verbalize how they’re feeling.
You might also check theAsthma and Allergy Foundation of Americaor theAllergy and Asthma Networkfor help in English or Spanish.
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