The City of Weston recognized the importance of leading by example and has taken proactive steps within its municipal buildings to reduce environmental triggers, including promoting cleaner indoor air practices and limiting the use of strong fragrances of any type in shared spaces.  The City issues a proclamation recognizing Asthma Awareness Month and provides community education about its impact. 

The Broward Sheriff's Office Fire Rescue and Emergency Services Weston maintains a portable ventilator on EMS truck 55.  This truck is dispatched to all respiratory arrest calls, as it connects to a tube that is placed in someone’s airway when they are not breathing and frees up a medic to do other tasks for the persons care.   

Noteworthy Facts About Asthma

• Over 262 million people worldwide live with asthma, according to the World Health Organization.

• In the United States, more than 26 million people have asthma, including approximately 4.7 million children.

• Asthma accounts for approximately 1.8 million emergency department visits in the US each year.

• Black Americans are three times more likely to die from asthma than white Americans, highlighting significant health disparities.
  
  
• Asthma is not simply a condition, but a serious and sometimes life-threatening disease that can restrict breathing within minutes.

Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions in the world. According to the World Health Organization, over 262 million people were affected by asthma in 2019, and it caused approximately 455,000 deaths that year.

In the United States alone, more than 26 million people live with asthma, including approximately 4.7 million children. Asthma disproportionately affects certain communities: Black Americans are three times more likely to die from asthma than white Americans, and children living in low-income urban areas face higher rates of asthma and poorer access to specialist care.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Asthma Awareness Month?

Asthma Awareness Month is an annual May observance that raises awareness about asthma, a chronic respiratory condition. It promotes education about triggers, management strategies, and access to effective treatment.

• When is Asthma Awareness Month in 2026?

Asthma Awareness Month runs from Friday, 1 May to Sunday, 31 May 2026.

• Can asthma be cured?

There is currently no cure for asthma, but it can be effectively managed with the right treatment plan. Most people with asthma can control their symptoms and lead active lives using a combination of preventer inhalers, reliever inhalers, and trigger avoidance strategies.

History of Asthma Awareness Month

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America first declared May as National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month in 1984. May was chosen because it coincides with the spring allergy season in the Northern Hemisphere, when tree and grass pollen levels peak and many people with allergic asthma experience worsening symptoms. The timing maximizes the relevance of the awareness campaign and ensures it reaches people when they are most likely to be thinking about respiratory health.

The AAFA was founded in 1953 and has been a leading advocacy organization for people with asthma and allergies for over seven decades. Its work during May includes distributing educational materials, hosting community events, and advocating for policy changes that improve access to asthma care. The American Lung Association also plays a major role, organizing webinars, producing patient resources, and running its “Lung Force” campaign.

HOW TO HELP: 

Whether you live with asthma, care for someone who does, or simply want to help raise awareness, there are many ways to participate:

Review your asthma action plan – If you have asthma, work with your healthcare provider to update your personalized action plan. Make sure you know your triggers, medications, and what to do during an attack.

Learn to identify triggers – Common asthma triggers include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, smoke, cold air, strong smells such as perfume, cologne and cleaning products, and exercise. Understanding your triggers is the first step to managing symptoms effectively.

Support World Asthma Day – On 5 May 2026, join the global conversation by attending a local event, participating in an online webinar, or sharing awareness content on social media.

Check indoor air quality – Use the US Environmental Protection Agency’s resources to assess and improve the air quality in your home and workplace. Simple steps like using HEPA filters and reducing humidity can help.

Reduce environmental triggers - Businesses, schools and organizations can take steps to reduce environmental triggers in buildings, including promoting cleaner indoor air practices and limiting the use of strong fragrances in all forms in shared spaces. 

For additional information visit www.EPA.Gov/Asthma