Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that can be life-threatening. Asthma causes chest tightness, wheezing, cough, rapid breathing, and, in severe cases, respiratory failure. Asthma attacks can be triggered by exercise, allergens (house
dust mites, pet dander, cockroaches, and molds), irritants (tobacco
smoke, air pollution), stress, changes in temperature, and
certain chemicals found in the workplace and elsewhere.
Managing Asthma
Asthma Data
Asthma hospitalizations and emergency department (ED) visits data are available through the Environmental Public Health Tracking (EPHT) portal. The EPHT portal (http://phpa.dhmh.maryland.gov/oehfp/eh/tracking/Pages/home.aspx) allows you to view maps, charts, and tables of asthma data across the state and in your community.
Asthma Friendly Child Care
The Asthma Friendly Child Care program supports the health and early learning of young children through asthma management, reducing environmental asthma triggers, and providing asthma education and awareness programs for children in care.
The application for the Asthma Friendly Child Care program includes two modules, the Environmental Module and the Management Module. Both modules must be filled out and submitted to ensure completion of application.
Asthma Reporting
Asthma in general is not a reportable condition, unless a doctor finds that it is occupational. Physicians can report cases of occupational asthma by downloading and submitting a report.