Rep. McCarthy Introduces Legislation To Fight Asthma

Bill Would Establish National Plan to Address Growing Asthma Epidemic

October 14, 2009 -- WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY-4) today introduced The Family Asthma Act of 2009, a bill that would help prevent future generations of Americans from getting asthma by establishing a national strategic plan to fight the nation’s asthma epidemic. The legislation would increase funding for asthma monitoring and initiate studies of environmental factors that impact asthma attacks.

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“Millions of Americans are affected by asthma,” stated Rep. McCarthy. “It is responsible for causing serious health problems, lost productivity and wages, and placing financial burdens on many families. Above all, asthma is a quality of life issue. Adults suffering from asthma often miss work or are prevented from participating in activities they enjoy, and children often are unable to go outside and play with their friends. This bill represents a significant step forward in improving both our understanding of asthma and the best methods to control and prevent its symptoms. I was happy to work with Senator Lautenberg and the American Lung Association on developing this important piece of legislation, and I look forward to passing this bill and providing the much needed support for families and individuals struggling with asthma.”

Asthma attacks can be triggered by air pollution and allergens, including cigarette smoke and exhaust smoke, as well as animal dander, pollen and molds. The Family Asthma Act of 2009, would study ways environmental factors may cause or increase asthma cases. It would also award grants for pilot projects to find better ways of preventing and controlling asthma symptoms and reducing asthma attacks.

Asthma strikes one in 13 Americans and the number of people with asthma more than doubled between 1980 and 1995. According to the CDC, more than 34 million Americans were diagnosed with asthma in 2007, including an estimated 9.6 million children. The annual cost of asthma is nearly $20 billion in the United States.

The Family Asthma Act of 2009 has been endorsed by the American Lung Association.

Source: Representative Carolyn McCarthy