Health Disparities

Asthma is a situation in which the airways of the lung narrow due to swelling with or without excess mucous secretions. 

Some symptoms of asthma include coughing, shortness of breath, audible wheezing, and chest tightness.  

While there is no cure for asthma, persons living with asthma can control their disease with medications as well as avoiding known triggers when possible. 

Triggers are activities or substances that cause asthma symptoms in an individual and may include environmental or even exercise.   

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are manufactured chemicals found in consumer and industry products. They have been widely used since the 1940s and don't break down, meaning that they are found in the environment and many people and animals have PFAS in their bloodstream. 

PFAS are used in products like cleaning chemicals, water-resistant fabrics, non-stick cookware, stain-resistant coatings, grease-resistant paper (like fast food wrappers), and personal care products like shampoo, floss, nail polish, etc. 

However, after their initial use, PFAS can enter the soil and contaminate drinking water or bioaccumulate in wildlife. Therefore, PFAS can also be found in waste sites, biosolids (sewage or manure), and food, like seafood that lives in contaminated water, or livestock that are exposed to contaminated water or soil.

Research is ongoing to determine the effects of PFAS on human health. Past studies have found that exposure to PFAS in varying levels may lead to an increased risk of some cancers, reduced immune system function, developmental issues, or issues with reproduction.

PFAS are impossible to avoid completely, but you can take steps to lower your exposure. You can have your drinking water tested or make sure your local water utility is testing the city water. Most PFAS exposure comes from ingesting water as opposed to contaminated water coming into contact with your skin. Showering, bathing, or swimming in contaminated water is unlikely to significantly increase your risk of exposure.

Click the hyperlink for PFAS advice from the EPA.

Air pollution occurs when there are harmful or excessive amounts of substances are present in air.  These substances include gases, dust and particulate matter as well as other biological particles.  

Air pollutants are airborne materials that can harm respiratory and cardiovascular health. These include small particles, such as dust, or chemicals, such as carbon monoxide (CO). Reducing exposure to air pollutants may reduce symptoms of pulmonary disease such as asthma or COPD.