New England Communities

Questions About Your Community: Asthma

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The US EPA considers asthma a serious lung disease. During an asthma attack, the airways get narrow, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms of asthma include wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. Asthma can even cause death. Asthma may be triggered by allergens and irritants that are common in homes: secondhand smoke, dust mites, pets, molds and pests. About 17 million Americans have asthma and it is the second leading cause of long-term illness in children. For more information, please refer to our national asthma Web site (EPA HQ) or call the EPA Indoor Air Quality Information Clearinghouse at (800) 438-4318 or call the EPA New England's toll-free customer call center at (888) 372-7341 and ask to speak to an Indoor Air specialist.