Asthma is proving to have a devastating impact on Hispanic sufferers' quality of life, according to a new report by The American Lung Association.
The report examines the complex biological, environmental, political and cultural factors that increase asthma's burden on the Hispanic population in Los Angeles and nationwide.
Almost thirteen million Hispanics live in the state of California, many of whom may be needlessly suffering from asthma.
The Spanish title of this new report, “Luchando por el Aire,” translates into "fighting for air," a predicament often faced by Hispanics with asthma, Fox News reports.
Compared to non-Hispanic whites, Hispanics with asthma are less likely to be in the care of a regular doctor or clinic.
They were also 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.
"Some Hispanics face social and economic disadvantages that make them less able to manage their asthma," says Jane Warner, President and CEO of the American Lung Association in California, reports Fox News.
"Hispanics make up thirty-seven percent of the population in California and it is critical that we address the burden of asthma as it grows with the population,” she noted.
