About the Program
The Air Pollution and Respiratory Health Program (APRHB) leads CDC’s
fight against environmental-related respiratory illnesses, including
asthma, and studies indoor and outdoor air pollution ...more
Health Issues
Air Quality, Fires,
and Volcanic Eruptions
Smoke from wildfires or burning debris after natural disasters is a
mixture of gases and fine particles that can cause breathing
difficulties or coughing and can harm your eyes ...more
Asthma
Asthma is a serious environmental health threat, but it can be
controlled by taking medication and by avoiding contact with
environmental "triggers" such as dust mites, furry pets, mold, tobacco
smoke, and certain chemicals ...more
Carbon Monoxide
Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO), an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden
illness and death, is found in combustion fumes produced by cars and
trucks, generators, stoves, lanterns, burning charcoal and wood, gas
ranges, and heating systems ...more
Chronic
Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a term used to
describe two related lung diseases: chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
Chronic bronchitis is inflammation and scarring of the bronchi (airway
tubes). Emphysema is enlargement and destruction of the alveoli (air
sacs) within the lungs ...more
Mold
Mold grows anywhere there is moisture but can be prevented. Exposure
to damp and moldy environments may cause nasal stuffiness, throat
irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye irritation, or skin irritation
...more
Resources
Useful documents and FAQs about asthma and indoor/outdoor air pollution
from federal and state agency resources ...more
Surveillance for Asthma — United States, 1980-2004
Prevention Guidelines:
