ENVIRONMENTAL TRIGGERS AND ASTHMA SOUTHERN PLAINS TRIBAL HEALTH BOARD
In industrialized countries, adults and children spend up to 90% of their time indoors. The primary indoor air pollutants associated with asthma include: Biological allergens (dust mites, cockroaches, animal dander, & mold), Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) Irritant chemicals and fumes, and Products from combustion devices (gas ranges & wood-burning stoves).
More than 1 out of 10 AI/AN have asthma. OKGov listed asthma is the most prevalent chronic condition among children in Oklahoma.
$57.9M
In 2012, the total charge for Oklahomans 15 years and older hospitalized with asthma was $57.9 million according to CDC.
HOW TO MITIGATE ENVIRONMENTAL TRIGGERS IN YOUR HOME
Reduce your exposure to pet allergens by vacuuming carpets/furniture and dusting weekly. Try to keep your pets out of the bedroom or other rooms where you spend time. If possible avoid having carpets or rugs in rooms of individuals with asthma If you're allergic to dust mites, use allergen-proof pillows and mattress covers. You can reduce your exposure to mold by cleaning visible mold, throwing away moldy items, running a dehumidifier and using the exhaust fan when taking a shower. Clean mold with mild soap, hot water and a strong brush. Don't let anyone smoke near your child. If you smoke — until you can quit, don't smoke in your home or car. For resources to quit, the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline is available at 1-800-QUIT- NOW. If possible, replace your old wood stove with a new, EPA-certified heating appliance. Newer wood stoves are at least 50% more efficient and pollute 70% less than older models.
AI/AN CHILDREN ARE MORE THAN 2 TIMES MORE LIKELY TO CURRENTLY HAVE ASTHMA THAN NONHISPANIC WHITE CHILDREN.
20 15 10 5 0
AGE-ADJUSTED PERCENTAGE OF CHILDREN UNDER 18 YEARS OF AGE, WHO CURRENTLY HAVE ASTHMA, 2016
AI/AN
Non-Hispanic White
Percentage based on CDC 2021. Summary Health Statistics: National Health Interview Survey. Table C-1a
50% OF NATIVE CHILDREN AND 28% OF NATIVE ADULTS ARE MORE LIKELY TO HAVE ASTHMA THAN NON-HISPANIC WHITES. To breath easier, check your home, work, and environment for asthma triggers that you can help to mitigate. The most common triggers are dust, dander, pests, harsh chemicals, mold, second-hand smoke, and byproducts from combustion devices.
To receive weekly environmental health information, text "ENV" to 55251 or visit www.spthb.org
Southern Plains Tribal Health Board
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS THAT AFFECT COVID-19
SOUTHERN PLAINS TRIBAL HEALTH BOARD
Heat, high or low pH, and sunlight make it easier to kill Covid-19 (WHO 2020b). Poor air quality is linked to higher death rates from COVID-19. Covid-19 can live on plastic, stainless steel, and glass surfaces between 2 and 4 days at room temperature Preventive measures, such as disinfection of surfaces, hand washing, avoiding crowds, and wearing masks can cut down the spread Covid-19
To receive weekly environmental health information, text "ENV" to 55251 or visit www.spthb.org