Luchando por el Aire: The Burden of Asthma on Hispanics

Abstract

Luchando por el Aire: The Burden of Asthma on Hispanics is part of the American Lung Association’s Disparities in Lung Health Series of reports, which takes an in-depth look at a specific problem in a specific community. The Spanish title translates as “fighting for air,” an experience that is all too common among Hispanics with asthma. Compared to non-Hispanic whites, Hispanics with asthma are less likely to be in the care of a regular doctor or clinic; less likely to be prescribed appropriate medicines; less likely to have access to specialized care; and more likely to end up being treated in the emergency department or hospitalized in a crisis. This report presents an overview of research into the complex biological, environmental, political and cultural factors that increase the burden of asthma on Hispanics.