EPA Recognizing World Asthma Day on May 7

May is Asthma Awareness Month, and EPA, along with other agencies, is recognizing May 7, 2013, as World Asthma Day to help increase awareness. According to the agency, the chronic lung disease affects 7 million children aged 0 to 17 in the U.S. There is no current cure, but asthma can be managed. EPA recommends five steps that people can take to help prevent asthma attacks:

1. Take it outside. Second-hand smoke triggers asthma. To help avoid triggering it, people should smoke outside.
2. Play it safe. Check the Air Quality Index to view reports of unhealthy air quality levels. 
3. Take care. Cover mattresses and pillows with allergen-proof covers, and wash sheets and blankets with hot water once a week.
4. Be aware of your pets. Keep pets out of the bedroom and off furniture, as pets can also trigger asthma.
5. Break the mold. Control mold by controlling moisture. Wash and dry hard surfaces to prevent and remove mold, and replace moldy tiles and carpet where applicable.