Lautenberg, McCarthy Introduce Legislation To Fight Asthma

Bill Would Establish National Plan to Address Growing Asthma Epidemic

October 7, 2009 -- WASHINGTON, DC – Senator Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ) and Representative Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY-4) today introduced The Family Asthma Act of 2009, a bill that would help prevent future generations of Americans from getting asthma by establishing a national strategic plan to fight the nation’s asthma epidemic. The legislation would increase funding for asthma monitoring and initiate studies of environmental factors that impact asthma attacks.

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“No one should have to struggle to breathe – and no one should be forced to suffer from a preventable disease. We can make an impact in the fight against asthma but we’ve got to take tough, decisive action,” Sen. Lautenberg said. “The Family Asthma Act would help us gain a better understanding of the environment’s impact on this disease so that we can make the investments necessary to protect the health of future generations. Working with Rep. McCarthy in the House of Representatives and the American Lung Association, we will fight to advance this important health measure and improve the quality of life for millions of potential asthma sufferers.”

“Millions of Americans are affected by asthma,” stated Rep. McCarthy. “It is responsible for causing serious health problems, lost productivity and wages, and placing financial burdens on many families. Above all, asthma is a quality of life issue. Adults suffering from asthma often miss work or are prevented from participating in activities they enjoy, and children often are unable to go outside and play with their friends. This bill represents a significant step forward in improving both our understanding of asthma and the best methods to control and prevent its symptoms. I was happy to work with Senator Lautenberg and the American Lung Association on developing this important piece of legislation, and I look forward to passing this bill and providing the much needed support for families and individuals struggling with asthma.”

Asthma attacks can be triggered by air pollution and allergens, including cigarette smoke and exhaust smoke, as well as animal dander, pollen and molds. The Family Asthma Act of 2009, would study ways environmental factors may cause or increase asthma cases. It would also award grants for pilot projects to find better ways of preventing and controlling asthma symptoms and reducing asthma attacks.

Asthma strikes one in 13 Americans and the number of people with asthma more than doubled between 1980 and 1995. According to the CDC, more than 34 million Americans were diagnosed with asthma in 2007, including an estimated 9.6 million children. The annual cost of asthma is nearly $20 billion in the United States.

The Family Asthma Act of 2009 has been endorsed by the American Lung Association.

Source: Senator Frank R. Lautenberg