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Unlock The Secret To Easier Breathing

As children and teenagers get ready for the new school year, parents might overlook the importance of safeguarding their child’s lung health. However, experts stress that this should be a priority.

Harold Wimmer, president and CEO of the American Lung Association (ALA), emphasizes that returning to school introduces new environments with potential asthma triggers, exposure to different viruses, and increased peer pressure to smoke or vape. Given that students and staff spend a considerable amount of time in school, ensuring a healthy environment is crucial for their well-being and educational success.

In response, the ALA has launched a youth initiative aimed at addressing chronic lung conditions such as asthma and advocating for better air quality and tobacco-free policies in schools. This initiative provides resources, guides, and sample policies to help schools create a healthier environment for students and staff.

The ALA focuses on four main areas of lung health:

1. Asthma: With 6.1 million children under 18 affected by asthma—a leading cause of school absences—the ALA offers comprehensive resources for managing asthma. This includes a free online course for school staff on administering asthma medications and understanding relevant laws and programs.
2. Tobacco Use: The new school year can also heighten the risk of tobacco use among students. The 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey revealed that over 2 million middle and high school students used e-cigarettes in the past month. The ALA provides materials aimed at preventing tobacco use and assisting youth in quitting, tailored for schools, parents, and teenagers.
3. Indoor Air Quality: Indoor air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions can impact cognitive function and learning abilities. The ALA offers a free guide to help school administrators improve indoor air quality, enhancing the overall learning environment.
4. Infectious Respiratory Diseases and Vaccinations: With the school year bringing new social interactions, students should practice good hygiene and receive recommended vaccinations, including for influenza and COVID-19, to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.